U.S. visa rules leave African students caught between education and isolation

A new immigration policy under the Trump administration is prompting alarm among African students in the United States,as tighter visa restrictions limit travel flexibility and raise emotional and academic concerns.

Effective 8 July,the U.S. State Department has implemented a revised visa policy that grants F-1 student visas — especially for African nationals like Nigerians and Ghanaians — valid for just a single entry within a three-month window. Once inside the U.S.,students may stay for the full duration of their program,but leaving before graduation could require a fresh visa application with no guarantee of re-entry. The change disproportionately affects students from sub-Saharan Africa,whose numbers rose to over 50,000 in 2023,up 18% from the previous year. Many now face a wrenching choice: stay the course or risk being unable to return after family emergencies or internships abroad.

“The travel ban was a stab in the heart,” said Sarira Namavar,a dual United States and Iranian citizen and a fourth-year sociology student. The revised visa policy caused anxiety among prospective African students and their families,Sasha Ramani of MPOWER Financing admits,adding that the practical impact on students’ academic plans is actually minimal. Still,MPOWER is ramping up support for students via visa prep resources and expert-led webinars. Ramani emphasized the importance of reliable information,warning against panic or misinformation. Critics argue the move echoes Trump-era travel bans targeting predominantly non-Western nations,limiting international ties and marginalizing communities of color. Despite mounting concerns,Ramani stressed that African students remain welcome.