New Regulation for US Visa Applications!

The United States is implementing a comprehensive overhaul of its visa application processes, implementing new procedures for tourist, student, and temporary work visas. According to information obtained from the US mission in Turkey, the new regulations, which will take effect on October 1, 2025, will require applicants to pay an additional $250 fee.

Additional Burden for Tourist, Student and Temporary Work Visas

The new regulation applies to applicants for tourist (B2), student (F and M), and temporary work (J) visas. The new $250 fee, which will be applied in addition to standard visa fees, is being interpreted as further tightening US entry requirements.

Social Media Requirement Continues

In a recent statement, the US Embassy in Ankara announced another new regulation, effective July 14, 2025. Accordingly, applicants for F, M, and J visas are now required to make all their personal social media accounts public.

The embassy said in a statement that this requirement was introduced to “verify the identity of applicants and assess their admissibility to the United States.”

Reflections of the Trump Era

These regulations, implemented after Donald Trump's re-election, reinforce the Trump administration's signals of a tightening of immigration and border policies. While transparency, security, and stricter oversight have been prioritized in visa applications, the new transparency requirements for social media accounts and the new financial burden further complicate the process for those planning to enter the US.