The United States government has announced plans to cut the duration of visas for foreign students and journalists.
The Department of Homeland Security said in a statement on Thursday that student visas, known as F visas, will now have a maximum validity of four years. This is a change from the current system where students get visas covering the entire length of their programs, which sometimes extend beyond five years for doctoral studies.
The proposed rule will also affect foreign journalists. Their visas will now be valid for 240 days, with the possibility of another 240-day extension. However, the total period will not exceed the duration of their assignments. Journalists will need to apply for extensions through the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, which will involve extra security checks.
“For too long, past administrations have allowed foreign students and other visa holders to remain in the US virtually indefinitely,” the DHS said, explaining that the change is aimed at reducing security risks, preventing visa abuse, and ensuring better oversight.
The announcement has drawn criticism from education advocates. Miriam Feldblum, President and CEO of the Presidents’ Alliance on Higher Education and Immigration, warned that the new policy would disrupt studies and make the US less attractive to global talent.
“The rule would force international students and scholars to regularly submit additional applications, disrupting their studies and straining university operations,” Feldblum said. “This uncertainty could push talented students and researchers to choose other countries for their education and work.”
The proposed rule will take effect after the final approval process, according to officials.
