Written by Lisa Murimi
Kenyan students studying in the United States risk losing their visa status for missing classes or withdrawing from academic programs without notifying their schools, the U.S. Embassy in Nairobi has warned.
The caution, issued on Wednesday, August 13, targeted both current and prospective Kenyan students holding or seeking U.S. student visas.
“Heading to the U.S. on a student visa? Ensure you stay on track! Skipping classes or leaving your program without notifying your school could impact your visa status and future travel plans,” read part of the embassy’s statement.
The embassy added that dropping out without formally informing the institution could also lead to losing eligibility for future U.S. visas.
The warning comes amid a tougher immigration stance under President Donald Trump’s second term.
Since taking office in 2025, Trump’s administration has tightened vetting procedures, increased visa enforcement, and expanded grounds for denial — including reviewing applicants’ social media history.
Kenyan students have come under increased scrutiny following reports of individuals using student visas to seek employment or start businesses in the U.S. In other cases, financial challenges have forced students to skip semesters or abandon classes.
In April, Trump’s administration cancelled more than 4,700 international student visas. According to NBC News, many affected students received little or no explanation, prompting criticism over due process.
Reports have also emerged of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers appearing on campuses to enforce removals.
In July, a Kenyan student was denied a visa renewal at the Nairobi embassy for “insufficient ties” to Kenya.
In another case, a student was detained for failing to update his school’s international office after changing his major — a requirement under the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS).
The embassy urged all Kenyan students to remain compliant with visa regulations to avoid sudden revocation or deportation.
