The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has announced a new rule limiting the duration of stay for international students in the country on F-1 student visas.
What’s Changing?
- New Cap: Students on F visas (degree programs) and J visas (exchange programs) can only remain in the U.S. for the duration of their program, up to a maximum of 4 years.
- Previous Rule: Since 1978, F visa holders have been allowed to stay as long as they remain enrolled full-time, without a fixed limit.
- Reasoning: DHS says this move will curb “visa abuse” and improve monitoring of international students.
Why It Matters for Indian Students
- Adds administrative hurdles, students may face more paperwork and uncertainty.
- It could impact those pursuing longer programs or extensions.
- Education advocates argue the policy sends a message that foreign students are less welcome, which may discourage global talent.
Other Changes
- Foreign journalists may now obtain an initial 240-day stay, extendable once, but not beyond the duration of their assignment.
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Source: Beritaja