The United States (US) Government has announced new plans to reduce the validity period of visas issued to foreign students and international journalists, a move officials say is aimed at curbing visa abuse and strengthening oversight.
The proposal, released by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), has already triggered criticism from U.S. higher education leaders who warn it could discourage international talent and disrupt academic programs.
Under the new rule, F visas for foreign students would be capped at a maximum of four years, instead of covering the full length of an academic program as currently allowed.
This means students enrolled in doctoral programs that typically run beyond five years would need to reapply for extensions to continue their studies.
“For too long, past administrations have allowed foreign students and other visa holders to remain in the U.S. virtually indefinitely,” DHS stated.
“This practice poses security risks and financial burdens, and may disadvantage U.S. citizens.”
Journalists Restricted to 240 Days
For international journalists, validity of visas would be restricted to 240 days, with the possibility of a single extension for another 240 days.
The DHS added that journalists’ visas must not exceed the length of their professional assignments, unlike in the past when correspondents from countries such as Germany were granted visas valid for up to five years.
Any extension request would now require applications through the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), including additional security checks.
The proposal has been met with sharp criticism from U.S. higher education circles, who argue that the restrictions could damage the country’s global academic standing.
Miriam Feldblum, President and CEO of the Presidents’ Alliance on Higher Education and Immigration, warned that the move would create significant challenges for both students and universities.
“The rule would force international students and scholars to regularly submit additional applications, disrupting their studies and straining university operations,” she said.
Feldblum further cautioned that the uncertainty could discourage highly skilled international talent from pursuing education and research opportunities in the U.S.
