Major US visa shift could impact thousands of international students

The US plans to replace its flexible student visa system with a fixed four-year stay limit, potentially affecting thousands of international students, especially those enrolled in longer academic programmes.

WEBDESK – MEDIABITES

A major change in US immigration policy could soon reshape the future of international students studying in America, as the US government plans to introduce a fixed four-year stay limit for foreign students and exchange visitors.

According to international media reports, the proposed regulation by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) would replace the long-standing “Duration of Status” (D/S) system currently used for student visas.

Under the existing system, international students are allowed to remain in the United States for the full duration of their academic programme as long as they maintain valid student status and comply with visa conditions.

However, the new proposal would impose a strict four-year limit on most student stays. Students wishing to continue studies beyond that period would need formal approval from US immigration authorities to extend their stay.

The proposed rule is expected to affect F-1 student visa holders, J-1 exchange visitors, and other related academic visa categories.

Officials say the policy aims to strengthen immigration monitoring, improve oversight of visa compliance, and reduce overstays.

The regulation has already cleared review by the White House Office of Management and Budget and could move toward official publication in the Federal Register within weeks. Reports suggest implementation may begin 30 to 60 days after final approval.

Education experts and universities have expressed concern over the proposed changes, warning that longer academic programmes such as PhDs, research-based degrees, and specialised technical courses could face serious disruptions.

Indian students are expected to be among the most affected groups, with more than 331,000 Indian students currently studying in US institutions, according to recent education data.

Experts fear the new system could create uncertainty for international students by increasing paperwork, immigration scrutiny, biometric checks, and delays in extension approvals.

The proposed changes may also impact Optional Practical Training (OPT), a key programme that allows international graduates to gain work experience in the United States after completing their studies.

Immigration specialists warn that students whose stay expires without timely extension approval could face legal complications, including unlawful presence penalties and future travel restrictions.

For now, the current visa system remains unchanged, and students have been advised to continue following existing immigration rules while closely monitoring updates from US authorities and their universities.