Thousands of Kenyans living and working in the United States could soon face uncertainty after the US government announced plans to review more than 55 million visas.
The decision, revealed on Thursday, August 21, by the Department of State, is part of what the administration described as “continuous vetting” aimed at identifying violations that could render visa holders ineligible to remain in the US.
Officials confirmed the review will cover all categories of visas, including tourist, work, and student permits, potentially exposing many to revocation and deportation.
“We review all available information as part of our vetting, including law enforcement or immigration records or any other information that comes to light after visa issuance, indicating a potential ineligibility,” the Department of State said in a statement to the Associated Press (AP).
The Trump administration admitted the process would be lengthy but insisted it was necessary to ensure visa holders complied fully with American laws.
Some of those affected may not currently reside in the US but hold multiple-entry visas, meaning they, too, remain under review.
The move follows heightened concerns over foreigners overstaying their visas, involvement in criminal activities, and possible threats to national security.
In a separate directive, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced the immediate suspension of all visas for foreign commercial truck drivers. He argued that the rising number of foreign truckers was undermining American livelihoods and threatening public safety.
“Effective immediately, we are pausing all issuance of worker visas for commercial truck drivers,” Rubio declared in a statement shared on his X account.
The sweeping crackdown is expected to impact a wide range of communities globally, with Kenyans abroad now watching closely to see how the new vetting measures unfold.
