Kenyan Students in the US Risk Deportation for Missing Classes, Embassy Issues Warning

The US Embassy in Nairobi has issued a warning to Kenyan students studying in the United States about the increased risk of having their visas revoked if they fail to meet academic requirements. 

This comes as the US government enforces tougher immigration policies, making it more challenging for international students to maintain their status. The embassy’s notice emphasizes that students holding F-1 or J-1 visas must remain actively enrolled and make steady academic progress. Failure to attend classes regularly, withdrawing from courses without notifying authorities, or not updating schools about changes in enrollment can lead to visa cancellation.

Such violations could also affect future chances of entering the US. These measures are part of a broader crackdown by the Trump administration aimed at preventing visa misuse. This includes more thorough background checks, which may involve reviewing social media, and increased monitoring of students on campuses.

US officials have expressed concern that some Kenyan students use academic visas to work illegally or pursue business opportunities instead of focusing on their studies. Additionally, financial difficulties often lead some students to disengage from their courses, inadvertently violating visa conditions.

There are reports that the consequences of these stricter rules are already being felt. NBC News reported that over 4,700 student visas were revoked in April alone, often with little explanation or warning. Many affected students have criticized the process as unclear and lacking fairness, with some facing immediate deportation. 

For instance, a student’s visa was recently denied because officials doubted their intent to return to Kenya after studying. Another was detained for failing to update their university following a change of major, as required by US regulations.

While studying in the US remains a valuable opportunity for many Kenyan students, the current environment demands strict compliance with visa regulations. Even minor breaches can lead to severe consequences.