India advocates merit-based visa evaluation amid US social media directive
India has asked the US to process student and exchange visitor visas based on merit—not just online presence.
This comes after new US rules now require applicants to list all their social media usernames from the past five years and switch their social media settings to "public" for screening.
MEA promises to keep talking with US officials
These changes could impact many Indian students hoping to study or work in the US.
Not following the new rules might mean getting denied a visa or even being barred in the future.
India's Ministry of External Affairs says it understands immigration is up to each country, but wants to make sure Indian nationals aren't unfairly blocked or put through extra hurdles just because of stricter screening.
The MEA promises to keep talking with US officials so young Indians can still access global opportunities.