Foreign students may face new US visa rule

The United States government is reportedly planning a major change in student visa rules that could affect thousands of international students. According to reports, the White House is reviewing a proposal by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to limit the stay of foreign students in the US to four years under the F-1 visa category.

At present, international students are allowed to stay in the US as long as they continue their studies and follow visa conditions. This system is called “duration of status.” However, under the new proposal, students would get a fixed four-year stay period. After completing those four years, they would have to apply again to extend their legal stay in the country.

As per Bloomberg Law, the proposal has already been sent to the White House Office of Management and Budget, which is usually the final stage before a rule is officially announced.

The proposal also includes changes for J-1 exchange visitors and foreign media representatives using I visas.

Reportedly, a similar plan was introduced during President Donald Trump’s earlier administration, but it faced strong opposition from universities and healthcare organisations. Many colleges had argued that repeated renewals could create stress and extra paperwork for students, especially those enrolled in long courses.

The move comes at a time when many foreign students are already facing uncertainty due to stricter immigration policies and increased scrutiny of work visa programs like OPT and H-1B.

According to reports, international student enrollment in US universities has also seen a decline recently. Education groups fear that tougher visa rules may discourage students from choosing the US for higher education.