New Rules Limit International Student and Visitor Visas
The US Department of Homeland Security has eliminated the "duration of status" loophole that allowed foreign students, exchange visitors, and journalists to remain in the United States indefinitely. Foreign students will now have fixed four-year maximum stays.
On July 16, the Department of Homeland Security announced a final rule ending nearly 50 years of open-ended student and visitor visa policies. Previously, holders of F-1, J-1, and I visas (foreign students, exchange visitors, and media representatives) could remain in the US as long as they maintained valid status — a system known as "duration of status."
Under the new regulation, all three categories will operate on fixed admission periods instead. Foreign students in F, M, and J classifications will be capped at a maximum four-year stay from the rule's effective date. Extensions are available but require "rigorous vetting."
Key Changes
- Students already in the US will automatically transition to the new system and must leave after four years unless they qualify for an extension
- Academic program changes will face strict new limitations
- Chinese journalists' visas will be cut from indefinite status to 90 days; other foreign journalists get 240 days
The rule publishes in the Federal Register within days and takes effect 60 days after publication. If you are an international student currently in the US or planning to study here, review your program timeline carefully. Extensions are possible but competitive. Those planning to work after graduation or pursue advanced degrees should consult with an immigration attorney now about post-graduate options, as the four-year cap may affect your ability to stay longer.
Sources
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