U.S. Consulates Resume F‑1 Visa Interviews—Here’s What You Need to Know

Great news for international students: as of mid‑June 2025, U.S. consulates around the world are resuming F‑1 (and M‑1/J‑1) visa interview appointments after a temporary pause that began in late May.

📌 Why the Pause Happened

The State Department halted appointments to implement enhanced social media vetting. Under updated guidelines, consular officers are now required to perform a more in-depth review of each applicant’s digital presence, particularly social media profiles.

🔍 What’s New for F‑1 Visa Applicants

• Public Social Media Accounts:
  Applicants must ensure their profiles are publicly visible. Accounts marked private may raise concerns or result in delays or denials.
• Limited Interview Availability:
  Appointment slots began reopening around June 26, but expect longer wait times due to the additional vetting workload.
• Expedited Options:
  Students attending institutions with fewer than 15% international students may qualify for priority processing, as well as some J‑1 exchange categories.

🎓 What You Should Do Now

• Monitor the U.S. embassy or consulate website in your country regularly.
• Update your social media to public visibility before applying.
• Prepare supporting documents and apply as early as possible.
• Ask about expedited appointments if your school qualifies.

Bottom line: F‑1 visa interviews are back—but with tighter screening. Stay proactive, stay transparent, and start preparing early to secure your spot.

👉 Need help preparing your F‑1 visa application or navigating the new process?
At Lumos Language School, we’ve guided hundreds of international students through the visa process with personalized support every step of the way. Whether you’re just getting started or need help with your next steps, we’re here for you.

📞 Contact us today to speak with our admissions team or schedule a consultation.

Let us help you turn your dream of studying in the U.S. into reality. 💙🇺🇸