If you’re reading this, you have probably experienced the stress of applying for, renewing, or waiting for a US visa. You are not alone. Nonimmigrant US Visa processing is becoming more difficult, and the new rules are creating additional challenges. The good news is that you can avoid the most significant challenges if you have the proper assistance, such as Aeren LPO.
What’s Changed with the Nonimmigrant US Visa Process?
1. Tighter Interview Waiver Requirements
What’s new? As of February 18, 2025, the US Department of State restricted interview waiver eligibility. Only those renewing the same visa type within 12 months of expiration can skip the interview, and even then, it’s at the consular officer’s discretion.
Who this affects: Anyone applying for a USA Nonimmigrant Visa renewal, whether a tourist, student, or professional, might suddenly be required to attend an in-person interview. That means more travel to the embassy and extended waiting periods.
2. Mandatory Social Media Disclosure & Public Profiles
What’s new? Effective immediately across embassies worldwide, including India and Ireland, for all F, M, and J visas (student and exchange), the State Department now:
- Requires applicants to list all usernames used in the past five years on the DS‑160 form.
- Insists that social media accounts (Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn) be set to public for vetting. (Source)
Why it matters: Privacy is gone. Consular officers scan public posts for political views, “hostility” toward the US, or support for terrorism. Lack of transparency or hostile content can lead to visa denials or revocations.
3. Broader Security & Border Vetting
What’s new?
- Expanded online screening: USCIS now flags social media content endorsing antisemitic or extremist views as negative during discretionary adjudications.
- Increased port-of-entry screening: Nonimmigrants may be asked to provide phone data, passwords, or access to social media at US entry points.
Who this affects: Even after visa approval, travelers, students, tourists, business visitors, spouses, and families must still prepare for more thorough scrutiny.
4. Country-Specific Travel Bans & Suspension Effects
What’s new? Following the June 4, 2025, proclamation, visa issuance (including Non-Immigrant tourist visas, student, and exchange visas) is suspended for multiple countries, effective June 9, 2025.
The takeaway: Even if you pass social media checks and interviews, nationality-based restrictions remain. Monitor embassy updates carefully.
5. Confusion Around Family & Spouse Applications
What’s new? Changes to waivers and social media rules apply equally to spouses and family members. For example, a Nonimmigrant spouse visa USA applicant must also show 5 years of public usernames and may lose waiver eligibility.
Why this matters: It’s not just the main applicant who is under pressure; each family member must comply separately, which increases stress, cost, and logistics.
Also read: 5 Ways How Corporate Immigration Fuels Business Growth
Where Aeren LPO Makes It Easy
Aeren LPO’s US Immigration Services, makes the nonimmigrant US visa process not just doable but smooth:
1. Personalized Plan
We evaluate your visa category, whether it’s a USA Nonimmigrant Visa for tourists, students, workers, or spouses, and craft a roadmap: required documents, interviews, and social presence preparation.
2. Social Media Audit & Coaching
We review your profiles, tighten your privacy settings, and flag any red content. We’ll say, “Make this post public, hide this,” so you avoid scrutiny. You’ll know what’s safe or risky.
3. DS-160 & Consular Prep
Our team reviews your US Nonimmigrant visa application form twice, making sure every answer is correct, consistent, and clear. No guesswork.
4. Interview Training
We’ll conduct mock interviews, record your answers, and help build your confidence. Facing the consular officer is far less intimidating when you’ve done it before, with expert feedback.
5. Issue Tracking & Updates
We monitor policies daily regarding US immigration laws, Social screening changes, and visa revocation trends, and alert you if anything changes in your case.
6. Complete Package
We track each step, from application submission to interview attendance. You receive alerts, reminders, and real-time document checklists – no surprises.
Final Take: Don’t Go It Alone in 2025
The Nonimmigrant US visa process has gotten more complicated. The waiver rules are stricter, public policies for social media are mandatory now, reviews are more detailed, and nationality restrictions are changing the game.
With Aeren LPO by your side, you’re not just applying; you’re confidently navigating each new obstacle with expert advice, personalized prep, and clear communication. We know US immigration laws inside and out and how to make them work for you.
🎯 Next Step: Book a free consultation with Aeren LPO. Assess your waiver options, map your social strategy, and walk into the embassy with confidence.