On the evening of June 20, the U.S. Consulate General in Ho Chi Minh City announced it is resuming interviews and visa reviews for student categories. This applies to both first-time applicants and those renewing visas in the F, M, and J categories, which correspond to academic education, vocational training, and exchange programs.

However, the Consulate emphasized that from now on, applicants must ensure their social media accounts are set to “public” mode. This requirement is part of identity verification and entry eligibility checks under U.S. law.

"Applicants will be denied a visa if this information is missing. Be honest, carefully review your visa application, and ensure all information is accurate before submission," the Consulate warned. It added that updated appointment scheduling for interviews and renewals will be announced soon.

Previously, a U.S. State Department cable to embassies worldwide emphasized that officials must “thoroughly review applicants’ online activity, not just social media.” The State Department explained that this measure aims to ensure comprehensive screening of individuals intending to enter the country.

In May, under the Trump administration, the scheduling of new interviews for student and exchange program visas was temporarily suspended. The move caused concern among international students, who feared that years of preparation for study in the U.S. could be disrupted indefinitely due to the uncertainty surrounding the resumption of appointment bookings.

Thuy Nga