Washington: The US. Department of Homeland Security has proposed a significant policy shift that could restrict the duration of stay for international students, journalists, and certain other visa holders. The move aims to introduce stricter timelines aligned with the purpose of the visa, replacing the long-standing practice of allowing open-ended stays under student (F) and media visa categories.
For decades, holders of F visas have enjoyed what’s known as “duration of status,” which permitted them to remain in the country as long as they maintained their academic activities. However, Homeland Security officials argue that this flexibility has at times been misused, with some individuals overstaying or remaining in the U.S. long after completing their programs.
Under the new proposal, international students would be granted a stay limited to the official length of their academic program, with a maximum cap of four years.
Similar restrictions would apply to media professionals on journalist visas. The draft policy also includes mandatory periodic check-ins to verify visa holders’ ongoing eligibility and lawful presence.
Officials believe the change would enhance immigration oversight, reduce visa abuse, and bring greater accountability to the non-immigrant visa system.
It’s important to note that a similar policy was introduced in 2020 during the Trump administration but was later rolled back by the Biden administration. The current proposal, however, is being revisited amid growing concerns about immigration system integrity.
The proposed rule will now undergo a public comment period, after which final adjustments and potential implementation will be considered.
