US Tightens Visa Requirements for Dutch Students Amid Social Media Scrutiny

washington - New visa rules require Dutch students applying to US universities to undergo social media screening, with visa applications currently on hold. The move follows increased scrutiny on foreign students after pro-Palestine protests.

US Tightens Visa Requirements for Dutch Students

A memo from the US Department of State reveals that new visa applications for Dutch students seeking to study at American universities are temporarily suspended for enhanced scrutiny, including social media checks.

New Regulations and Scrutiny

The tightened measures come in response to ongoing pro-Palestine protests on campuses, viewed as fostering antisemitism by the Trump administration.

The US government plans to announce additional rules in the coming days, detailing the social media screening process for visa applicants.

Impact on Dutch Students

Annually, over two thousand Dutch students study at US universities, making the US a top destination for international education. The State Department warns of delays due to the new requirements.

Harvard University Controversy

The stricter visa rules follow a clash between the White House and Harvard University over antisemitism and ideological differences, resulting in Harvard losing federal funding and foreign student admissions.

Harvard refused to comply with the government's demands for combating antisemitism and promoting a specific ideology, leading to legal action and sanctions. The university is challenging the penalties in court.