Trump administration caps initial student visa stay at four years, tightens rules
The Trump administration announced a new Department of Homeland Security rule capping the initial admission period for F-1 student visas at four years, regardless of course length, effective September 15 pending congressional review. International students must apply for extensions or leave and re-enter to stay longer. The rule also restricts students from starting a new program at the same or lower academic level after completion, and reduces the departure grace period from 60 to 30 days. DHS cited oversight challenges, overstays, fraud, and national security as reasons. Critics, including NAFSA CEO Fanta Aw, argue the policy makes the US less welcoming to global talent. This follows other Trump administration visa tightening moves, including a $100,000 H-1B fee that was struck down.
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