The administration of United States President Donald Trump has introduced a new immigration rule that will generally limit international students and exchange visitors to a maximum stay of four years in the country unless they obtain approval for an extension.
The policy, finalised by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), replaces the long-standing “duration of status” system that previously allowed eligible foreign students to remain in the United States for as long as they maintained their academic status and complied with the conditions of their visas.
Under the new regulation, the four-year limit will apply to holders of F-1 student visas as well as J-1 exchange visitor visas.
According to a report by The Washington Post, the Department of Homeland Security acknowledged that the policy could present challenges for many students, particularly those enrolled in programmes that typically extend beyond four years. The department noted that numerous undergraduate degrees require more than four years to complete, while doctoral programmes often take considerably longer.
Defending the policy, Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin said the changes were designed to tighten immigration controls and curb abuse of the student visa system.
“For nearly half a century, the outdated ‘duration of status’ system has compromised national security and created an environment ripe for immigration fraud,” Mullin said.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 announcement has, however, drawn criticism from education advocates and organisations representing international students.
The Association of International Educators (NAFSA) argued that eliminating the “duration of status” policy would create unnecessary obstacles for students and educational institutions alike.
“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 new rule comes at a time when many American colleges and universities are working to maintain their appeal to international students amid stricter immigration policies and tighter visa regulations introduced during the Trump administration.
Education stakeholders have warned that the policy could make the United States a less attractive destination for foreign students, many of whom contribute significantly to academic research, innovation and the country’s higher education economy.
(Ripples)