Breaking News: US Suspends Immigrant Visas—Is Your Study Abroad Dream Over?

The news cycle of January 2026 has been a rollercoaster for aspiring international students in Nepal. Following the headline from The Guardian on January 14, "Immigrant Visas Suspended by Trump Administration," confusion has spread across social media and student groups in Kathmandu, Chitwan, and beyond.

At Right & Associates, our mission is to provide clarity in the face of regulatory chaos. If you are planning to head to the United States for the Fall 2026 intake, here is the professional breakdown of how these changes—including the new bond requirements and social media vetting—actually impact your F1 Student Visa.

1. Fact Check: Is the F1 Student Visa Suspended?

The short answer is No. The Presidential Proclamation issued on January 1, 2026, and the subsequent news from January 14, primarily target Immigrant Visas and the Diversity Visa (DV) lottery .

  • Immigrant Visas: Suspended. These are for people moving permanently to the US (Green Cards).
  • F1 Student Visas: Remain active. The F1 is a "Non-Immigrant Visa," meaning the ban does not technically close the doors to students.

However, the political climate has shifted the "burden of proof" onto the applicant. While you are not banned, you will face the highest level of scrutiny seen in decades.

2. The $15,000 Visitor Visa Bond: A Warning Sign for Students

Starting January 21, 2026, a major policy shift takes effect for nationals of Nepal. Those found eligible for a B1/B2 (Visitor) visa may be required to post a bond of up to $15,000 .

While this bond currently applies to tourists, it serves as a critical indicator for students. It proves that the US government views Nepal as a "high overstay risk" country. For F1 applicants, this means you must work twice as hard to prove your Non-Immigrant Intent under Section 214(b) . If a Visa Officer (VO) suspects you might try to overstay your student status to live in the US permanently, your visa will be denied .

3. Mandatory Social Media Vetting: "Set to Public"

As of 2026, all applicants for F, M, and J non-immigrant visas are instructed to adjust the privacy settings on all social media accounts to 'public' to facilitate vetting .

The US Embassy in Kathmandu now has the authority to review your digital footprint. Before your interview, our counselors at Right & Associates recommend a "Digital Audit." If your Facebook or Instagram contains posts about "settling in the US" or "working illegally," it could contradict your study plan and lead to an immediate refusal.

4. Why the USA Still Wins: The STEM Advantage

Despite these hurdles, the US remains the #1 destination for career-driven Nepali students. The reason? Optional Practical Training (OPT).

  • If you graduate in a STEM field (Science, Technology, Engineering, or Math), you are eligible for up to 36 months of work authorization in the US .
  • Starting salaries for STEM graduates in fields like Computer Science range from $75,000 to $95,000 .

The US continues to offer the highest Return on Investment (ROI) for students who are academically focused and well-prepared .

5. Right &Associates’s 2026 "Success Protocol" – National Support

In this strict environment, you cannot afford a generic application. Right & Associates has implemented a new 2026 US Visa Protocol across all nine of our branches:

  • Kathmandu & Lalitpur: Intensive mock interview sessions tailored to the latest Maharjungj embassy trends .
  • Chitwan (Lions Chowk): Dedicated SAT coaching and scholarship guidance for science graduates .
  • Butwal & Pokhara: Expert guidance on documenting "Strong Ties to Home" to satisfy Section 214(b) requirements .
  • Hetauda, Damauli, Kawasoti, & Bardaghat: Local access to the same global expertise and "Onshore Support" through our Australian offices .

Conclusion: Prepare, Don't Panic

The window to study in America is still open, but the "entry code" has changed. Success in 2026 depends on transparency, technical accuracy, and an undeniable Statement of Purpose (SOP).

Don't let the headlines stop you.

Visit your nearest Right & Associates branch today in Kathmandu, Lalitpur, Chitwan, Pokhara, Butwal, Hetauda, Damauli, Kawasoti, or Bardaghat. Let us help you navigate the new 2026 rules and secure your F1 visa with confidence.