Trump limits foreign students to four-year stay under new visa rule

The administration of United States President Donald Trump has finalised a new immigration rule limiting most foreign students and exchange visitors to a maximum stay of four years, unless they obtain an extension from the Federal Government, according to The Washington Post.

The new rule, announced by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), brings an end to the long-standing “duration of status” policy, which previously allowed international students to remain in the United States for the length of their academic programmes, provided they complied with visa requirements.

The restriction will apply to students on F-1 visas and exchange visitors on J-1 visas.

According to The Washington Post, the Department of Homeland Security acknowledged concerns that some students may struggle to complete their studies within the new timeframe, noting that many bachelor’s degree programmes last longer than four years, while doctoral programmes often require even more time.

Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin said the policy change was aimed at strengthening immigration enforcement and reducing visa overstays.

> “For nearly half a century, the outdated ‘duration of status’ system has compromised national security and created an environment ripe for immigration fraud,” Mullin said.

The decision has drawn criticism from NAFSA: Association of International Educators, which described the measure as unnecessary and warned that it would create uncertainty for international students.

NAFSA Executive Director Fanta Aw said:

> “DHS’ decision to end Duration of Status is a misguided and unnecessary policy shift that injects uncertainty, bureaucracy, and fear into a system that has long worked effectively.”

The new rule comes as many colleges and universities across the United States continue to face challenges attracting international students amid stricter immigration policies and visa restrictions introduced by the Trump administration.