Bangladesh, June 22 -- In a move that significantly expands surveillance of foreign nationals seeking to study in the United States, the Trump administration has introduced a controversial new policy requiring student visa applicants to make their social media profiles publicly accessible. The State Department confirmed the directive, which applies to all individuals applying for F, M, and J nonimmigrant visa categories-covering academic, vocational, and cultural exchange programs-will be immediately implemented following a pause in student visa processing earlier this year.

This drastic tightening of visa vetting procedures reflects President Donald Trumps intensified focus on national security and cultural assimilation amid heightened ...