US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has issued a directive mandating additional vetting for anyone seeking a US visa to visit or work at Harvard University. The internal cable, first reported by CNN, was sent to all US embassies and consulates, instructing them to "immediately begin additional vetting" for any applicant with plans to travel to Harvard "for any purpose."

This includes prospective students, current students, faculty, staff, guest speakers, contractors, and even tourists. According to the cable, applicants will undergo enhanced background checks, particularly focused on their online and social media activity.

Social media screening under State Department oversight

The Fraud Prevention Unit within the State Department will supervise the process, aiming to "identify potential inadmissibilities and any information indicating that the applicant may intend to engage in activities inconsistent with the requested visa classification," the cable stated.

Earlier this week, media outlets reported that the State Department had suspended all new student visa appointments in preparation for the expanded vetting procedures. The increased scrutiny is expected to apply broadly across visa categories related to Harvard.

Read more: Trump threatens Harvard's $3bln funding, may redirect to trade schools

Mounting pressure from Trump 

This decision comes amid escalating tensions between the Trump administration and Harvard University. The conflict includes the revocation of Harvard's Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) certification for the 2025–2026 academic year.

Last week, a federal judge in Massachusetts ruled in favor of Harvard, granting a temporary suspension of the Department of Homeland Security’s move to bar foreign student enrollment. US District Judge Allison Burroughs, presiding in Boston, confirmed that her order will remain in place while legal proceedings continue.

Despite the ruling, US authorities have given Harvard University 30 days to respond to a federal notice of intent that would revoke its ability to enroll foreign students, a move that could severely impact the institution’s international programs.

According to a notice issued by Acting Director of US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), Todd Lyons, Harvard must submit a formal rebuttal, under oath and supported by documentary evidence, explaining why its SEVP certification should not be withdrawn for the 2025–2026 academic year.