AMLÉ Raises Alarm Over Increased U.S. Visa Scrutiny

Press Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

June 19, 2025

AMLÉ Raises Alarm Over Increased U.S. Visa Scrutiny for International Students

DUBLIN, IRELAND – Aontas na Mac Léinn in Éirinn (AMLÉ), formerly known as the Union of Students in Ireland (USI), has voiced serious concern over new U.S. visa screening protocols that intensify surveillance of international students and raise significant questions around privacy, freedom of expression, and equitable access to education.

AMLÉ warns that these practices risk infringing on students’ rights and disproportionately targeting those from marginalised or politically active backgrounds. The organisation emphasises that students must not be penalised or profiled based on their online activity, political views, or cultural background.

The policy shift, follows a temporary suspension of visa interviews and introduces intensified background checks on student applicants. U.S. embassies and consulates will now demand public access to social media accounts and increased online scrutiny before granting F, M, or J class visas.

Chris Clifford, President of AMLÉ, said the measures “send a damaging signal to young people globally and undermine the principles of openness and educational exchange.” He added that these restrictions are likely to deter students who wish to pursue academic opportunities in the United States, particularly those who may already face systemic barriers to international mobility.

AMLÉ is calling on the Irish Government to engage directly with U.S. counterparts to advocate for student rights and ensure Irish students are not subject to excessive or discriminatory vetting practices.

AMLÉ will continue to monitor developments closely and urges affected students to seek support from their institutions or student unions. We also advise all students travelling to the U.S. this summer on a J1 visa to stay informed, stay safe, and be aware of their rights throughout their trip.

ENDS