The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has announced plans to cut down the validity period of visas issued to international students and foreign journalists.
According to the proposed rule, F visas—which allow foreign students to pursue academic programs in the United States—would now have a maximum validity of four years. At present, students typically receive visas that cover the entire duration of their academic programs, which can extend beyond five years, especially for doctoral studies.
For foreign media professionals, the new rule would limit visas to 240 days, with a possible extension of another 240 days. However, journalists’ visas would not be allowed to extend beyond the length of their professional assignments. Any request for an extension would have to be submitted to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), requiring additional background and security checks.
Previously, journalists from countries such as Germany were granted visas valid for up to five years.
“For too long, past administrations have allowed foreign students and other visa holders to remain in the U.S. virtually indefinitely,” the DHS stated. The agency argued that this practice creates security risks, financial burdens, and disadvantages U.S. citizens.
The DHS said the reform is intended to curb visa abuse and improve monitoring of visa holders.
Criticism From Education Leaders
The proposal has sparked strong opposition from the U.S. higher education sector, with experts warning that it could harm America’s ability to attract international talent.
Miriam Feldblum, President and CEO of the Presidents’ Alliance on Higher Education and Immigration, said the rule would disrupt learning and put unnecessary pressure on universities.
“The rule would force international students and scholars to regularly submit additional applications, disrupting their studies and straining university operations,” Feldblum explained.
She also cautioned that the uncertainty could discourage top students and researchers from choosing the United States.
“The uncertainty could deter international talent from choosing the U.S. for their education and research,” she added.
