US Introduces Four-Year Limit for Foreign Student Visa Stays

The United States Department of Homeland Security on Thursday announced a new rule limiting most foreign students and exchange visitors to a maximum stay of four years in the country.

 According to The Washington Post, the policy will affect people on F-1 and J-1 visas and replaces the previous “duration of status” system that allowed students to remain in the US while completing their approved programmes.

Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin said the change is necessary to strengthen immigration enforcement and prevent visa overstays.

The department acknowledged that some students, including those in bachelor’s and doctoral programmes, may struggle to finish their studies within four years and will need government-approved extensions.

The new rule, introduced by the Trump administration in the United States, is intended to tighten oversight of international students by requiring federal approval for stays beyond the four-year limit.