Nigerian student Ernestino Amaechi is facing uncertainty regarding his future in the U.S. due to visa regulations and the outcome of the upcoming presidential election. He fears that tightened visa policies could force him to return to Nigeria, separating him from his two American-born children. Although he currently holds a student visa with Optional Practical Training (OPT) that allows temporary work, his OPT is ending soon, and he needs an H-1B work visa to remain in the U.S. However, H-1B visas are highly competitive, with only 26% of applicants receiving approval.

The presidential election could bring changes to U.S. visa policies, as the president has authority to modify visa rules, impacting the ease with which international students can stay in the country. Trump’s administration previously made it harder for international students, while Biden has eased some restrictions. Although neither Trump nor Kamala Harris has addressed specific plans for student visas, Trump’s hardline stance on immigration causes concern for students like Amaechi.

International students face high visa denial rates, especially those from African nations. Experts note that the next president can influence visa processing and consular practices, potentially making it harder for students to secure or renew visas. This uncertainty has created anxiety among students who depend on visa stability to continue their education and work in the U.S.