Trump administration proposes 4-year limit for international student visas

The Trump administration has proposed a new rule that would limit the length of time international students can stay in the U.S. for their studies to four years. This rule, if finalized, would apply to certain visa holders, including foreign students, with the aim of curbing “visa abuse” and enhancing the government’s ability to vet and oversee individuals in the country.

According to a press release from the Department of Homeland Security, the proposed rule seeks to address the issue of foreign students taking advantage of the U.S. generosity by remaining enrolled in colleges indefinitely just to stay in the country. The agency believes that this practice has posed safety risks, incurred significant taxpayer expenses, and put U.S. citizens at a disadvantage.

Since 1978, foreign students on F visas have been allowed to stay in the U.S. for the duration of their status, which typically aligns with their enrollment as full-time students. However, under the new rule, foreign students and exchange visitors would be limited to a maximum of four years in the U.S., regardless of the length of their program or degree pursuit.

In addition to students, the proposed rule would also affect foreign journalists, setting their initial admission period at up to 240 days with a possible extension of another 240 days, not exceeding the length of their assignment. Regular assessments by DHS would be required for foreigners seeking to extend their stay, allowing for proper oversight and reducing the number of visa holders in the country.

While the rule aims to enhance national security and streamline visa processes, it may have financial implications for U.S. colleges that rely on international student tuition. Fanta Aw, executive director of NAFSA: Association of International Educators, expressed concerns that the rule could deter international students from studying in the U.S., impacting the economy, innovation, and global competitiveness.

Overall, the proposed rule represents a significant shift in how foreign students and visa holders are managed in the U.S., emphasizing stricter limitations on their stay to address perceived abuses and enhance national security measures.