US plans fixed-term visa limits, ending open stays for students and journalists, raising concerns over costs, stricter rules, and enrolment impact.
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has revealed plans to swap out the long-standing “Duration of Status” (D/S) system for fixed-term limits for foreign students, exchange visitors, and media professionals. For years, those holding F, J, and I visas could stay as long as they kept their legal status. Now, DHS is suggesting strict admission periods, which could have a ripple effect on millions of international residents.
F and J Visa Holders Face Tighter Limits
Under the proposal, students and exchange visitors on F and J visas would be allowed a maximum stay of four years, regardless of program length. For some research and PhD students, this could mean juggling multiple extension applications during their studies—adding more time, paperwork, and costs to an already challenging process.
Visa Rules Grow Stricter, Especially for Chinese Nationals
Foreign journalists on I visas will find their stays limited to just 240 days, with an even stricter 90-day cap for certain Chinese nationals. These new rules are part of a larger effort to tighten oversight and control over non-immigrant visa categories.
Shorter Grace Periods and Tougher Extension Rules
The proposal also cuts the post-programme grace period from 60 days down to 30 days. Anyone needing extra time will have to apply for an extension through USCIS. If they miss this step, they could face immediate penalties for unlawful presence—putting students and professionals at serious risk if they encounter processing delays.
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DHS Says Oversight Is the Goal
DHS claims that these fixed-term visas will enhance monitoring and help reduce system misuse. Officials argue that the open-ended D/S framework makes it tough to keep track of individuals who overstay their academic or professional commitments.
Universities Fear Enrolment Drops and Economic Losses
Leaders in higher education and advocacy groups are sounding the alarm that these changes might throw research timelines off course, delay graduation for students, and make the US a less attractive option for global talent. Economic studies suggest that even a modest 10% decline in spending by international students could lead to billions in losses and thousands of job cuts across the country.
Regulations Moving Toward Public Feedback
The proposed regulation has successfully passed through the White House and OMB review and is set to be published in the Federal Register soon. Once it goes live, there will be a 30- to 60-day public comment period, allowing universities, students, and advocacy groups to share their thoughts. Depending on the feedback received and the regulatory review process, a final rule could be in place as early as late 2025 or early 2026.
