Washington Sets Four-Year Cap on Student Visas
WASHINGTON — The United States has finalized a rule ending its decades-old "duration of status" policy for international students, replacing it with a fixed four-year admission period.
Under the new Department of Homeland Security regulation, most F-1 students, J-1 exchange visitors, and I-visa foreign journalists will be admitted for no more than four years, after which an extension application becomes mandatory. Previously, students could remain in the US for as long as their academic program lasted.
Educators and business groups have criticized the change, arguing it could deter international talent and weaken US higher education and innovation. DHS maintains the rule addresses national-security and overstay concerns. Students currently enrolled or planning US study should confirm timelines with their institution's international office before the rule takes effect.
