The administration of United States President Donald Trump has introduced a new rule that limits most foreign students and exchange visitors to a maximum stay of four years in the country unless they secure an extension from the Federal Government.
According to The Washington Post, the Department of Homeland Security announced the policy, bringing an end to the long-standing “duration of status” system that allowed international students to remain in the US for the entire length of their academic programmes as long as they complied with visa regulations.
The new restriction applies to students on F-1 visas and exchange visitors on J-1 visas.
The Department of Homeland Security acknowledged that some students may find it difficult to complete their studies within the four-year limit, noting that many bachelor’s degree programmes exceed four years, while doctoral programmes often require even more time.
Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin said the policy is aimed at improving immigration enforcement and reducing visa overstays.
“For nearly half a century, the outdated ‘duration of status’ system has compromised national security and created an environment ripe for immigration fraud,” Mullin said.
The decision has drawn criticism from NAFSA: Association of International Educators, which argued that the policy would create unnecessary uncertainty for international students.
“DHS’ decision to end Duration of Status is a misguided and unnecessary policy shift that injects uncertainty, bureaucracy, and fear into a system that has long worked effectively,” NAFSA Executive Director Fanta Aw said.
The policy comes as many US colleges and universities are already facing difficulties attracting international students amid tighter immigration rules and visa restrictions introduced by the Trump administration.
