Harvard Urges Kenyan Students to Arrive in US Before New Visa Rules Take Effect

Kenyan and other international students enrolled at Harvard University have been urged to ensure their physical presence in the United States before September 15, 2025. This advisory follows the introduction of a new Department of Homeland Security (DHS) rule that will impose stricter regulations on student visa holders.

Key Changes to Student Visa Regulations

• Four-year limit: Students on F-1 and J-1 visas will face a maximum stay of four years under the new rule, limiting the duration of their visa status.
• Programme transfers and study changes: The rule restricts students from transferring institutions or changing their study programmes without additional scrutiny.
• Grace period reduction: F-1 visa holders' grace period after programme completion will be shortened from 60 to 30 days. J-1 scholars retain their 30-day grace period.
• Extension process: Instead of relying on universities to extend their stay, students must now file extension requests directly with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

Implications for Students

Students already present in the US by the deadline can remain until their programme end date or the expiry of authorized work authorization, whichever is later, without filing for extensions. However, those who leave and re-enter the US after September 15 will be subject to the new limitations immediately upon return, potentially facing reduced authorised stay and more complex extension procedures.

Harvard’s International Office is actively communicating these changes to ensure students understand the new requirements and deadlines to avoid disruptions to their studies.