The United States has announced the final implementation of plans to further tighten visa regulations for foreign students. Under the new rules announced by the administration of US President Donald Trump, foreign students will not be permitted to stay in the US for more than four years without special authorization from the federal government.
Additionally, opportunities to change academic programs or transfer between universities and colleges will be restricted. Previously, educational institutions held the authority to approve extensions for students’ visa validity.
The US Department of Homeland Security stated yesterday (Thursday) that this policy will take effect this coming September. The objective is to curb widespread visa abuse and strengthen national security through regular vetting and oversight.
The ‘Association of International Educators,’ an international organization focused on education, has criticized the new rule, describing it as a “misguided decision” and “unnecessary.”
“Until now, holders of F-1 student visas and J-1 exchange visas could remain in the US until the completion of their studies under the ‘Duration of Status’ policy. However, the new rule will impose a specific time limit on their stay.”
Until now, holders of F-1 student visas and J-1 exchange visas could remain in the US until the completion of their studies under the ‘Duration of Status’ policy. However, the new rule will impose a specific time limit on their stay.
Markwayne Mullin, a US Department of Homeland Security official, said, “For decades, foreign students have been allowed to stay in the US for indefinite periods. This has enabled thousands to abuse our immigration system by enrolling in successive courses to avoid leaving the country.”
Completing most undergraduate degrees in the US typically takes four years. However, many advanced courses, including PhD programs, require more time than that.
A significant portion of foreign students in the US pursue graduate-level studies, particularly in science and technology fields. Completing these courses and publishing research findings generally requires a longer duration. Additionally, many students take longer to complete their studies due to factors such as a lack of research funding or various personal reasons.
Under the new rule, international students will be granted only 30 days to leave the United States or switch to a different visa category after completing their studies; previously, they were allowed 60 days.
The non-profit organization ‘Association of International Educators’ (NAFSA), which advises educational institutions on matters regarding international student enrollment, has criticized the new rule.
Fanta Aw, the organization’s Chief Executive, stated, “This new policy will create unnecessary uncertainty, excessive bureaucratic complexity, and an atmosphere of fear within a system that has been functioning effectively for a long time. It seeks to solve a problem that does not actually exist.”
This new rule is part of the Trump administration’s broader plan to reduce the number of international students and exercise stricter control over immigration to the United States.
Previously, the Trump administration attempted to limit the number of international students at certain top universities. It also took steps to revoke the visas of international students who had criticized U.S. foreign policy.
