US limits foreign students, journalists to 4-year visas

The United States has ended the indefinite stay for foreign students, exchange visitors, and journalists, introducing a new regulation that caps their admission period at four years. This final rule, announced by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), replaces the "duration of status" (D/S) policy, which previously allowed these visa holders to remain in the U.S. as long as they met their program requirements without regular government oversight.

DHS stated that the reform is designed to restore integrity to the U.S. immigration system, combat visa abuse, and bolster national security through routine vetting processes. Secretary Markwayne Mullin emphasized that the outdated D/S system had compromised national security for nearly half a century, creating opportunities for immigration fraud and allowing individuals to perpetually enroll in courses to avoid departing the country. "By implementing clear, finite limits on these visas, the United States is reclaiming its ability to properly screen, vet, and monitor individuals within our borders," Mullin said.

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For nearly half a century, the outdated duration of status system has compromised national security and created an environment ripe for immigration fraud.

Under the new regulation, non-immigrant students on F visas and exchange visitors on J visas will be admitted only for the duration of their specific academic program, with a maximum of four years. Those requiring additional time to complete their studies must formally apply for an extension of stay with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). This process will involve biometric screening, background checks, and fraud reviews, shifting oversight from university officials back to federal authorities. Additionally, the post-graduation grace period for F-1 students has been shortened from 60 days to 30 days for departure, school transfer, or visa status change.

The rule also imposes stricter limitations on academic program changes. Current visa holders under the old D/S system will automatically transition to the new framework, with their authorized stay capped at four years from the rule's effective date. The final rule is set to be published in the Federal Register and will take effect 60 days after publication, with the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) overseeing its implementation.

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For decades, foreign students have been admitted into the U.S indefinitely, allowing thousands to abuse our immigration system by perpetually enrolling in courses to avoid having to leave the U.S. By implementing clear, finite limits on these visas, the United States is reclaiming its ability to properly screen, vet, and monitor individuals within our borders.