United States Announced Temporary Pause on New F & J Visa Interview Scheduling – May 29, 2025
Hold onto your passports—there’s turbulence in the U.S. visa skies. If you’re an international student or scholar planning to study in the U.S. this year under an F or J visa, here’s a crucial update that demands your immediate attention.
In a classified-turned-public diplomatic bombshell, multiple reputable media outlets have reported that U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has signed a cable instructing all U.S. embassies and consulates to temporarily pause the scheduling of new visa interviews for F, M, and J visa categories—effective immediately. This stunning development surfaced on May 27, 2025, and is reportedly linked to an anticipated expansion in social media screening and vetting procedures.
What Does This Mean for You?
If you’re dreaming of beginning your studies or research in the U.S. this fall or renewing your current visa, the situation just got a bit murkier. Here’s what we know (and don’t know) so far:
If You Already Have a Visa Interview:
Relax—your scheduled visa appointment will proceed as planned. Just double-check your documents (especially DS-160, passport, I-20/DS-2019, SEVIS receipt, etc.) and attend your interview as scheduled unless you are informed otherwise. If there’s a cancellation notice from the embassy, contact your university’s OISS adviser immediately.
If You Haven’t Scheduled a Visa Interview Yet:
- You’re in the queue freeze. Until further notice, U.S. embassies and consulates are not adding new interview slots for F and J visa applicants.
- Still submit your DS-160. Officials suggest submitting it early might help you when slots eventually reopen.
- Monitor embassy websites and social media feeds religiously for fresh updates on availability.
❓ Interview Waiver Applicants:
It’s unclear how (or if) this affects students using the interview waiver/drop-box option. If you’ve already received instructions for document drop-off, follow them—until advised otherwise.
⚠️ Non-F/J Visa Applicants:
So far, this policy does not affect those applying for H-1B, O-1, or E-3 visas. But as we all know—things change fast in the visa world. Stay alert and stay in touch with your advisers.
Why Is This Happening?
Though the U.S. government hasn’t officially commented yet, one senior official cited by reports indicated that the pause is temporary and linked to the upcoming rollout of intensified social media vetting protocols for foreign nationals.
Translation: If your social media presence includes political commentary, controversial views, or edgy memes—now might be the time to scroll back and think twice.
Protect Your Digital Footprint
Remember: The DS-160 form already asks for social media handles. If you’re unsure what your online presence might reveal—or fear it could affect your application—consult an immigration attorney or your university’s privacy office for advice on managing your digital profile safely.
Final Words for Now!
This visa development has landed suddenly—and the skies are still foggy. Here’s your checklist:
- Have a scheduled interview? You’re safe—for now.
- Haven’t scheduled one? Submit your DS-160 ASAP and be ready to act when slots open.
- Keep your social media clean and professional.
- Contact your OISS adviser for case-specific guidance.
- Watch embassy alerts like a hawk.
References
- https://oiss.yale.edu/news/temporary-pause-of-scheduling-new-visa-interviews-for-f-j-visa-applicants
- https://international.globallearning.cornell.edu/alerts/guidance-scheduling-pause-visa-appointments
- https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/study/student-visa.html.
