The administration of United States President Donald Trump has finalised a new immigration rule limiting most foreign students and exchange visitors to a maximum stay of four years in the country unless they obtain an extension from the federal government.
The Department of Homeland Security announced the policy on Thursday, replacing the long-standing “duration of status” system that allowed international students to remain in the United States for the length of their academic programmes, provided they complied with visa requirements.
The new rule applies to students on F-1 visas and exchange visitors on J-1 visas.
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According to the department, students whose academic programmes extend beyond four years will be required to apply for an extension to complete their studies.
Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin said the policy is aimed at strengthening immigration enforcement, reducing visa overstays and improving oversight of temporary visa holders.
The department acknowledged that some students, particularly those enrolled in doctoral and other long-term academic programmes, may need additional time to complete their studies.
The rule also shortens the post-study grace period for many students and places tighter restrictions on changing schools or academic programmes without government approval.
The policy has been criticised by NAFSA: Association of International Educators, which warned that ending the duration of status framework would create uncertainty and additional bureaucracy for international students.
The latest visa changes come as many American colleges and universities continue efforts to attract foreign students amid tighter immigration policies.
