The United States has warned Kenyan students heading to America that failing to stick to their academic programs could result in the loss of their visas.

In a statement released on Wednesday, the US Embassy in Nairobi cautioned that missing classes, quitting studies, or leaving school without notifying the institution could lead to visa revocation and affect future travel to the US.

“Heading to the U.S. on a student visa? Make sure you stay on track! Skipping classes or leaving your program without telling your school can affect your visa status and future travel plans,” the embassy said.

The embassy emphasized that students who fail to attend lessons or withdraw from their programs without proper notice may have their visas canceled. Such actions could also make it more difficult to obtain a US visa in the future, even for work or tourism purposes.

This advisory comes after the introduction of new visa requirements, including providing details of social media accounts from the past five years.

The US authorities noted that incomplete or false information on these accounts could lead to visa rejections.

For non-immigrant student visas under the F, M, and J categories, applicants are advised to make their previously private social media accounts visible to authorities.

According to the US State Department, these measures are designed to protect national security and ensure public safety. “A US visa is a privilege, not a right,” the department stressed in a previous statement.

The guidelines reinforce long-standing immigration rules intended to prevent misuse of visas, policies that were strongly emphasized during former President Donald Trump’s administration and highlighted in his 2024 re-election campaign.

The embassy urged students to maintain close contact with their schools, comply with attendance requirements, and update institutions if they need to change or pause their studies. Applicants were also encouraged to provide complete and truthful personal information during the visa process.

For many Kenyan students, the United States remains a top destination for higher education, offering opportunities for academic and career growth. However, the embassy’s warning makes clear that these opportunities carry strict obligations.