USCIS to Reject Outdated Work Permit Applications, Impacting Kenyan Immigrants

The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has announced a significant change affecting work permit and legal status extension applications. As of September 8, 2026, USCIS will reject applications submitted on outdated forms, a move that could impact Kenyan immigrants and the broader African diaspora in the U.S. who rely on maintaining their legal status through these means.

This new policy requires applicants to use the updated form versions to ensure their applications are processed. The change is official and confirmed, according to a report by Clarin.com. The USCIS has not specified which forms are affected, but generally, this includes forms related to employment authorization and extensions of legal status.

The shift comes amid ongoing changes in U.S. immigration policy under President Donald Trump's administration. It underscores the importance of staying informed about the latest requirements to avoid potential disruptions in legal status for immigrants. Kenyan nationals in the U.S. seeking to extend their work permits or legal status must ensure they use the correct, updated forms to avoid rejections and possible complications with their immigration status.

USCIS's decision may particularly affect those in the Kenyan diaspora who are in the midst of the application process, as failure to comply with the new requirement could lead to delays or denials, affecting their ability to work legally in the U.S. This change emphasizes the critical need for applicants to verify they are using the most recent forms available on the USCIS website.

As these new requirements take effect, Kenyan and other African immigrants in the U.S. are urged to consult with immigration attorneys or trusted advisors to navigate these updates effectively. Such guidance can be crucial in ensuring that all paperwork is submitted correctly and timely, thereby safeguarding their ability to remain and work legally in the country.

The USCIS update is part of broader immigration policy shifts that have been occurring under the current U.S. administration, further highlighting the dynamic and challenging landscape faced by immigrants from Kenya and other African nations. Maintaining compliance with these new rules is essential to avoid any potential negative impacts on their legal status in the United States.