Kenyans living in the United States will now face stricter surveillance even after receiving their visas.
The US government has announced a new policy of continuous monitoring of all visa holders.
According to Secretary of State Marco Rubio, approval is no longer the final step in immigration scrutiny.
He emphasized that visa holders must obey US laws throughout their stay or risk deportation.
Rubio warned that failure to meet visa conditions would lead to immediate revocation.
This new directive builds on tougher policies introduced under Donald Trump’s administration.
One major area of concern for Kenyans is online activity.
Social media is now part of the vetting process for all visa applicants and holders.
Applicants are required to submit social media handles used over the past five years.
Authorities say the move is meant to improve identity verification and national security.
Content deemed extremist or antisemitic can automatically disqualify someone from getting a visa.
The Department of Homeland Security has made it clear that such ideologies are unacceptable.
Tricia McLaughlin, a DHS official, said the US has no obligation to admit extremist sympathizers.
Even green card and student visa applicants will be affected by the policy.
Kenyans in the US must also be cautious about legal violations beyond immigration rules.
Crimes like theft, fraud, and use of fake documents could lead to deportation.
Marriage fraud is another red flag that will trigger investigations and visa revocation.
This new system essentially keeps visa holders under constant review.
The US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has confirmed this will be the new standard.
Applicants who previously passed background checks are not exempt from future scrutiny.
This policy is part of a broader effort by the US to tighten its immigration processes.
For Kenyans already in the US, even minor offenses could have major consequences.
It’s now more important than ever to follow the law and maintain a clean record.
The message is clear: the US is watching, long after the visa is granted.
By Nairobi