• Student Visas may come with a Time Limit Soon
  The Trump administration is now pushing to impose a fixed duration for student visas, replacing the ‘current flexible system’, which is expected to significantly impact F-1 and J-1 visa holders. (Source)
  
• Emphasis on Genuine Intent
  Visa officers continue to assess applicants for “non-immigration intent”, meaning students must show that they plan to return to their home country post-completion of their studies unless applying for Optional Practical Training (OPT).

• Mandatory Social Media Screening for Applicants
  - All applicants for F-1, M-1 and J-1 visas are now required to provide access to their social media accounts for review.
  - Consular officers will screen for posts and messages perceived as hostile to the United States, its government, culture, institutions or founding principles.
  
• Criteria for Rejection
  - Refusal to make social accounts visible to Consular officers.
  - Incomplete or inappropriate documentation by the applicant.
  - History of criminal or drug-related activities.
  (Source)

• Get accepted into a SEVP-approved school.
• Pay the SEVIS I-901 fee.
• Receive your I-20 form from the institution.
• Complete the DS-160 Form (Official application for your USA Visa).
• Pay the non-refundable visa application fee.
• Schedule your Visa interview appointment.
• Prepare all required documents.
• Attend the interview at your designated USA Embassy.

• Optional Practical Training (OPT)
  Enables F-1 student visas to work in the US for 12 months.
  
• Extension for STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) Degrees
  Grant of an Extra 24 months
  Cumulative OPT for STEM students: 36 months
  
• H-1B Visa (Post OPT)
  Graduates are eligible to apply for an H-1B Visa, which is a temporary worker visa for skilled workers lasting up to 6 years (first 3 years, extendable by 3 years)

In 2025, the US is witnessing a mix of optimism and prudence in its student visa scene. For would-be students, keeping abreast of developments and preparing thoroughly is the way to open the doors of their USA dream.

“Discover your best strategy for a USA Student Visa. Book an appointment with us today!”