The Trump administration announced a major change. A new proposed rule would limit international student stays. Foreign students could only remain for four years maximum. This ends a decades-old duration-of-status policy. The Department of Homeland Security revealed the plan Wednesday. They aim to curb visa abuse through this action. The rule increases oversight capabilities significantly.
Furthermore, DHS criticized past administrations directly. They allowed indefinite stays for too long. This created safety risks according to officials. It also cost taxpayers untold amounts. U.S. citizens were disadvantaged ultimately. The new rule would end this abuse completely. It limits time for certain visa holders. This eases the federal government’s burden.
Moreover, the current policy dates to 1978. Foreign students could stay throughout their studies. This was known as duration-of-status. The proposed rule changes this fundamentally. Students get time for their specific program only. However, this cannot exceed four years. This affects studies beyond bachelor’s degrees greatly.
Additionally, the rule impacts other visa categories. Foreign journalists face new limits too. Their initial admission period is 240 days maximum. They may seek one extension of equal length. This cannot exceed their assignment duration however. Regular assessments will become mandatory. DHS will conduct proper oversight through these reviews.
Meanwhile, educational groups express strong concerns. This rule may deter international enrollment significantly. Foreign students typically pay higher tuition rates. They receive fewer scholarship opportunities often. U.S. colleges could face financial impacts. American innovation may suffer consequently. Global competitiveness might decrease as well.
Finally, the proposed rule publishes Thursday officially. A public comment period will follow next. The administration believes this increases security. Critics argue it harms education and economy. The future of international education hangs in balance. Foreign students await the final decision anxiously.
For more political updates, visit DC Brief.
