Tightened Student Visa Rules Lead to Decline in Nepali Students Traveling to the US

Government data reveals a significant decline in the number of Nepali students traveling to the United States prior to the announcement of stricter foreign student visa regulations by the US. In 2026, approximately 66,000 Nepali students studied abroad, but only 1,671 arrived in the US, according to the Immigration Department.

This week, the US Department of Homeland Security announced additional stringent visa rules targeting students, which may discourage many aspiring international students seeking higher education. A government official stated that Nepali students have been adapting to immigration policies and efforts are ongoing to address the challenges they face through diplomatic education initiatives.

In the academic year 2024/25, Nepal ranked sixth among countries sending international students to the US, as confirmed by the Institute of International Education’s (IIE) Open Doors report. That year, 24,890 Nepali students were enrolled in American universities and colleges. However, recent data highlights a sharp decrease in the number of Nepali students traveling to the US in recent months.

According to information released Thursday by the Department of Homeland Security, foreign students will no longer be allowed to stay in the US for more than four years without federal government approval. This rule, which restricts changes in course and transfers between universities or colleges, provides only a 30-day window for students to return home after graduation or to obtain another visa.