The number of US student visas issued to Kuwaitis fell by 10 percent in August 2025, signaling growing concerns for prospective students. US student visas have faced declines worldwide as stricter immigration policies take effect.
Data from the US International Trade Administration show 6,508 Kuwaitis were studying in the United States in 2024. At least 40 students from Kuwait have had their visas revoked so far this year. The reasons for cancellations remain undisclosed, adding to uncertainty among applicants.
Globally, US student visas issued in August totaled 313,138, traditionally the peak month for enrollment. This represents a 19.1 percent drop compared with August 2024. Indian students were hit hardest, with approvals down 44.5 percent, while Chinese students saw more moderate declines.
Students from the Middle East also experienced reductions. Overall, approvals fell 17.4 percent, with 18,917 visas issued in August. The steepest drops occurred for Iranian and Syrian students, down 86 percent and 62 percent, respectively. Within the Gulf Cooperation Council, Qatar saw the largest fall, followed by Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, and Kuwait. The UAE was the only country to register a small increase of 1.2 percent.
The US administration has tightened immigration rules, citing national security concerns and foreign policy considerations. Authorities have used a 1952 immigration law to justify visa revocations and deportations.
Reports of students detained at the US border for social media posts critical of US policies or expressing support for Palestine have raised alarm among Kuwaiti students. Since January, thousands of visas and green cards have been revoked, targeting students involved in campus activism. Secretary of State Marco Rubio temporarily suspended student visa processing in June during the peak application month. US officials maintain these measures are essential to safeguard national security.
The 10 percent decline in US student visas highlights growing challenges for Kuwaiti students seeking higher education opportunities abroad. Many are reconsidering plans due to stricter scrutiny and potential visa cancellations.
