Kenyan Nationals Among Those Affected by Harsh New US Immigration Measures

Millions of foreign nationals holding valid US visas are facing growing uncertainty following the Trump administration’s announcement of a new, far-reaching immigration review.

The policy, introduced on Thursday, 21 August, marks a significant shift in the government’s approach, expanding the scope of enforcement beyond traditional targets and raising fears of mass visa revocations and deportations. According to the Department of State, a “continuous vetting” system is now in effect for all categories of visa holders, including tourists, international students, skilled workers, and individuals with multiple-entry permits.

This new process allows US authorities to re-evaluate a person’s visa status at any time after it has been issued. The criteria for reassessment are broad and include visa overstays, criminal records, perceived threats to public safety, and suspected connections to terrorism. If any such concerns are raised, a visa may be cancelled immediately, which could lead to deportation proceedings for those already inside the United States.

Although security checks have long been part of the visa process, the scale and intensity of this new initiative represent a significant escalation. Unlike past efforts that primarily targeted undocumented individuals, the current policy also applies to those who entered the country through official, legal channels. This has prompted concern among immigrant communities and human rights organisations, who warn that the number of deportations could rise dramatically—potentially surpassing 400,000 by 2025, a figure not seen in over a decade.

The policy is causing particular concern among Kenyan nationals in the US, many of whom are in the country on student, work, or tourist visas. Those currently outside the US on valid multiple-entry visas may now face denied re-entry or retroactive visa cancellation, adding to the growing sense of insecurity.

In a related development, Secretary of State Marco Rubio has announced the immediate suspension of work visas for foreign commercial truck drivers. The decision follows a fatal traffic incident in Florida involving an undocumented Indian national who had reportedly failed an English language test. Citing concerns over public safety and the need to protect American jobs, Rubio argued that foreign drivers “endanger American lives and undercut the livelihoods of American truckers”.

However, critics warn that the move could worsen labour shortages and disrupt supply chains that depend heavily on foreign drivers, particularly through the H-2B visa programme. Analysts predict that the policy may lead to delivery delays and increased transportation costs, especially in regions already facing logistical challenges.

Civil liberties groups have also raised concerns that the administration’s approach is blurring the lines between immigration enforcement and political targeting. There is growing evidence that student visas have been revoked for individuals participating in pro-Palestinian protests or expressing views critical of US foreign policy.