Latest news with #visaapplication
The Guardian
3 days ago
- Politics
- The Guardian
White House targets Harvard again with social media screening of all foreign visitors to school
The Trump administration has ordered US consulates worldwide to conduct mandatory social media screening of every visa applicant seeking to travel to Harvard University, with officials instructed to view private accounts as potential signs of 'evasiveness'. A state department cable signed by the US secretary of state, Marco Rubio, and dated Friday, obtained by the Guardian, requires immediate enhanced vetting of all Harvard-bound students, faculty, staff, speakers and other visitors as part of what officials describe as a pilot program that could expand to other universities. The policy takes effect immediately at all US embassies and consulates. The directive is an unprecedented targeting of a single American institution and the latest attempt to single out the US's oldest university over alleged failures to combat campus antisemitism. It also comes as the administration has attempted to freeze visa interviews for all foreign students nationwide. The cable was first reported by Politico. Consular officers must now refuse Harvard visa applications until fraud prevention units complete 'comprehensive and thorough vetting' of applicants' entire online presence. Officials are also instructed to view private social media accounts or a limited online presence as potentially 'reflective of evasiveness' that calls into question the applicant's credibility. The cable explicitly links the enhanced screening to concerns that 'Harvard University failed to maintain a campus environment free from violence and antisemitism', citing information from the Department of Homeland Security. It aims to identify applicants with 'histories of antisemitic harassment and violence'. The state department did not respond to a request for comment. The policy builds on Trump's antisemitism executive order, which the president signed in January, describing the scenario as an 'unprecedented wave of vile antisemitic discrimination, vandalism and violence', linked to the Hamas attacks on Israel on 7 October 2023 and the subsequent lopsided war in Gaza with more than 50,000 killed. The measures significantly escalate existing screening that has primarily targeted students who participated in pro-Palestinian campus protests. Since March, state department officials have conducted mandatory social media reviews of returning students, taking screenshots of 'potentially derogatory' content for permanent records. Rubio told senators last week his department has revoked visas 'probably in the thousands at this point', up from more than 300 reported in March. The visa restrictions threaten to compound existing challenges facing higher education institutions already experiencing declining international enrollment. The Harvard directive comes as the Trump administration wages a broader confrontation with elite universities. The government has stripped Harvard of billions in research funding, entered dueling litigation with the Cambridge, Massachusetts, institution and briefly suspended its ability to enroll international students before a federal judge blocked the action. More than 1 million foreign students study in the US, contributing nearly $43.8bn to the economy and supporting over 378,000 jobs, according to Nafsa. The administration's expanded screening requirements could severely delay visa processing across the sector. The cable indicated the Harvard pilot 'will be expanded over time' and similar enhanced vetting could be applied to 'other groups of visa applicants as appropriate'.
Gulf Business
3 days ago
- Business
- Gulf Business
Full details: Inside the world's largest visa application centre in Dubai
Image credit: Supplied VFS Global, the global leader in trusted technology services that enable secure global mobility for governments and citizens, has announced the launch of its flagship visa application centre in Dubai's Wafi City. This marks the opening of the largest visa application facility in the world. The centre was inaugurated by Helal Saeed Almarri, Director General of Dubai's Department of Economy and Tourism; Mohammed Ahmed Al Marri, Director General of the General Directorate of Identity and Foreigners Affairs – Dubai; and Zubin Karkaria, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of the VFS Global Group. 'This milestone is more than just an infrastructure achievement — it reflects the strategic direction Dubai is taking to enhance global mobility, unlock opportunities, and accelerate growth across our visitor and business economy. As we advance the goals of the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, seamless access to and from Dubai remains a priority. Visa facilitation is a key enabler of talent attraction, tourism development, and international partnerships — all critical components of our strategy to position Dubai as the world's most connected and future-ready city,' said Helal Saeed Almarri. Mohammed Ahmed Al Marri commented, 'Today, we witnessed the inauguration of a new milestone in the UAE's journey of excellence, particularly for Dubai, with the opening of the world's largest Visa Application Centre. Located in the heart of a city that constantly redefines innovation, this achievement reflects our wise leadership's directives to reinforce the UAE's position as a global hub for smart services and to set a benchmark in efficient, high-quality government services. Continuous development is not optional — it is a commitment to a more prosperous future.' Zubin Karkaria added, 'Operating in the UAE since 2004, our journey has been shaped by an unwavering commitment and a strong connection with this dynamic nation and its visionary leadership. Over the past two decades, we have witnessed the UAE's spectacular growth into a global hub for business, innovation, and technology. Today, we are proud to launch the world's largest visa application centre, serving over 200 nationalities in this Year of Community. By collaborating with Emirati entrepreneurs and artists, the centre embodies the multicultural fabric of a country we are proud to call our Global Headquarters.' A next-gen experience for tomorrow's travellers Built to address rising outbound travel and growing expectations around security, accessibility, and convenience, the state-of-the-art centre in Dubai sets a new global standard. Spanning nearly 150,000 square feet, it can handle up to 10,000 visa applications daily — the highest capacity at any single location. The facility is supported by a team of over 400 trained professionals from more than 25 nationalities. Key features of the centre include: Tech-enabled self-service kiosks, secure lockers, photo booths, and photocopy stations for last-minute needs Touchscreen info kiosks, QR code-based check-ins, and automated feedback at each visa desk Over 400 on-site staff equipped with tablets, along with trained volunteers to assist with forms and kiosks Airport-style navigation with clear signage, spacious waiting areas, and a buggy service for easy movement Dedicated prayer rooms, kids' play areas, and multiple convenience zones to enhance the customer experience ESG-compliant design, with energy-efficient systems and fast-track lanes for seniors, families, and persons with disabilities With rising outbound travel from the UAE, personalised services like the Premium Lounge have become increasingly popular. Of the over 200 submission counters, 79 are exclusively designated as Premium Lounges. The centre is also one of the few worldwide — and one of only two in the UAE — to offer the Platinum Lounge, featuring a chauffeur service, end-to-end application support, and a calm, modern environment. At the core: AI and innovation From real-time document validation to advanced biometrics, the on-site AI Innovation Hub enables faster, more secure processing. Supporting this are a Digitisation Centre that transforms paper documents into secure digital records and a Global Resilience Center (GRC) that ensures 24/7 operational uptime, data security, and continuity for partner governments. VFS Global has embedded technology throughout the applicant journey to revolutionise the visa submission process. Visitors use QR code-based e-tokens for check-in, guided by a smart queue management system that includes electronic displays and mobile updates to reduce wait times and manage applicant flow — even during peak hours. By integrating cutting-edge innovation with human expertise, the centre delivers a visa application experience that is seamless, transparent, and efficient. A vision aligned with the UAE's future The launch of the world's largest Visa Application Centre in Dubai reinforces VFS Global's commitment to the UAE Government's 'We the UAE 2031' vision. Aligned with the Year of Community 2025, the centre not only sets a new global benchmark in service excellence but also celebrates Dubai's vibrant communities through Emirati cultural installations. This flagship facility represents a new model — one that blends breakthrough technology with local values to ensure a future of secure, connected, and community-driven travel. VFS Global has been associated with the UAE since 2002 as the official visa service provider for Emirates Airlines passengers and has maintained its global headquarters in Dubai since 2013.
NHK
3 days ago
- General
- NHK
US Embassy in Japan suspends interviews for student visa applicants
Japan's Foreign Ministry says it has confirmed that the US Embassy in Japan has suspended new interview appointments for student visa applicants. The move came after an order issued earlier this month by the administration of US President Donald Trump. The ministry said on Friday that the embassy is still accepting visa applications, and interviews that have already been scheduled are proceeding as planned. According to Foreign Ministry sources, the embassy explained that the pause is a temporary measure that will remain in place until the US government announces new measures, including expanded social media vetting of student visa applicants. Foreign Minister Iwaya Takeshi said people planning to travel to the US have expressed concern, and his ministry is responding with close attention. He added that the government has asked the US side to provide thorough information.
NHK
5 days ago
- General
- NHK
Japan govt. reacts to US move to pause screenings of student visa applications
Japan's top government spokesperson has commented on the US government's decision to temporarily stop screening new applications for student visas. Chief Cabinet Secretary Hayashi Yoshimasa told reporters on Wednesday that he will refrain from commenting on the matter, as Washington has not made an official announcement. Hayashi said he is aware that people planning to travel to the US have raised concerns. He added that the Japanese government intends to respond to the situation after it gains a full understanding of the matter by communicating closely with the US.
Daily Mail
6 days ago
- Business
- Daily Mail
What to know about Trump's latest student visa crackdown
Higher education in America has been plunged into chaos following President Donald Trump's order for all US embassies to stall student visa applications - so what does that mean if you are applying for one? Although details on the new order are ever-changing, foreign students should take these steps to help them through the process following Tuesday's major announcement. Those who already have a student visa appointment have been urged to keep it as the halt only applies to new interviews for applicants, according to a cable obtained by Politico. People should also stay up to date with their specific embassy following the halt - as cancellations could start happening soon. To do that, users can monitor their local embassy website, checking the visa section for appointment details and updates. General delays should also be expected as many have been affected by the announcement. Foreign students should also take a close look at their social media accounts as the administration said they are preparing 'for an expansion of required social media screening and vetting.' Those affected should also work to coordinate with their American institution for updates on their end, especially if you are still waiting for an appointment. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has directed officials to stop scheduling appointments with student visa applicants as they prepare to implement a social media vetting process, according to the directive. 'Effective immediately, in preparation for an expansion of required social media screening and vetting, consular sections should not add any additional student or exchange visitor (F, M, and J) visa appointment capacity until further guidance is issued septel, which we anticipate in the coming days,' the cable states. The Institute of International Education Open Doors data report found that in the 2023-2024 academic year, the United States hosted a record-breaking 1.1 million international students. These students generated $43.8 billion through tuition, housing and living expenses, according to NAFSA: Association of International Educators. Donald Trump has waged war on elite universities, accusing them of antisemitism and blasting their 'woke' ideology. Harvard has borne the brunt of Trump's fire but is also fighting back just as hard and has sued the administration. The Department of Homeland Security announced on Thursday its revocation of Harvard's ability to host and enroll students from other countries. DHS Secretary Kristi Noem published a letter she sent to the Ivy League university last week instructing the thousands of current students to either transfer to other schools or leave the country. Trump has demanded to know all of the names and countries of origin of all nearly 7,000 foreign-born students attending Harvard University. The president said it was unacceptable that 31 percent of the students who attend the famous Ivy League school are 'from foreign lands.' Harvard filed on Friday a lawsuit against the Trump administration for revoking its right to host foreign students. The school said in a court filing Trump's action will have an 'immediate and devastating effect for Harvard and more than 7,000 visa holders.'
