New York/Washington, August 28: The Trump administration has proposed a new rule that would restrict the length of stay for foreign students and media personnel in the United States, replacing the decades-old system of open-ended student visas.
In a press release on Wednesday, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) said the rule, if finalized, would set fixed terms for certain visa categories, including the F visa for international students.
Since 1978, F visa holders have been admitted for an unspecified period under the “duration of status” provision, which allows them to remain in the US as long as they maintain their enrollment. The proposed changes would end this practice, limiting how long students and some foreign journalists can stay without applying for an extension.
The DHS argued the move would “strengthen national security and immigration integrity,” but critics have raised concerns it could affect America’s appeal as a destination for higher education and international media presence.