The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced plans to implement a new rule limiting the duration of stay for foreign students and exchange program participants in the United States. Under the proposed regulation, holders of F visas will only be permitted to remain in the country for the length of their academic program, capped at four years, with mandatory periodic checks for extensions.
DHS officials stated that the changes are necessary to address concerns over "eternal students" who have exploited the current visa system, which has remained unchanged since 1978. The agency emphasized that previous administrations allowed visa holders to stay for indefinite periods, creating potential security risks and burdening taxpayers.
The new rule is part of a broader effort to reform immigration policies, aiming to ensure that foreign students contribute to the U.S. economy without overstaying their welcome. DHS has indicated that these measures are designed to protect the integrity of the visa system and prioritize opportunities for U.S. citizens.
As the department moves forward with the proposed rule, stakeholders in the education sector are likely to voice their opinions on the potential implications for international enrollment. This development follows recent discussions on immigration and security, reflecting a tightening stance on foreign visas amid ongoing debates about national policies. For more on related coverage, see our piece on recent developments in immigration discussions.
