DHS Implements New Visa Limits for International Students

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has announced a new policy that limits the duration of visas for international students to four years. This change replaces a 1978 policy that allowed foreign students to remain in the U.S. for the duration of their studies without regular immigration checks. Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin stated that the previous system had led to national security concerns and immigration fraud. The new regulation allows visa holders to apply for extensions if their academic programs exceed four years. F-1 visa holders must now leave the U.S. within 30 days of graduation, reduced from the previous 60 days. The rule also restricts changes in academic programs and will be published in the Federal Register, taking effect 60 days after publication.