Trump Administration Proposes 4-Year Limit on Foreign Student Visas in the US
The Trump administration has proposed a new immigration rule that would place a four-year cap on how long international students and exchange visitors can remain in the United States. The policy, announced on Wednesday, is part of a broader effort to tighten student visa regulations and reduce overstays.
✦ Current F Visa Policy vs. Proposed Rule
At present, foreign students holding F visas are allowed to stay in the country for the entire duration of their academic program, regardless of how long it takes. However, under the new regulation, students would be granted admission only for the length of their program, capped at four years.
After graduation, students would continue to have a 60-day grace period to either extend their legal status, transfer to another program, or leave the United States.
✦ Impact on Foreign Media & Exchange Programs
The proposal also affects foreign journalists and exchange visitors. Their admission period would be limited to 240 days, with the option to apply for extensions in equal increments.
✦ Government’s Justification
A spokesperson from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) said the new policy is designed to curb “abuse of the system,” reduce risks to public safety, and ease the burden on the government in monitoring long-term visa holders.
“For too long, past administrations have allowed foreign students and other visa holders to remain virtually indefinitely, creating safety concerns and financial burdens for American taxpayers,” the DHS stated.
✦ Rising Visa Revocations
According to the State Department, more than 6,000 student visas have been revoked in 2025 alone—nearly four times higher compared to last year. Officials cited reasons including overstaying visas, criminal violations such as assault and burglary, and in some cases, alleged support for terrorism.
The department has also instructed embassies and consulates to thoroughly vet applicants for “hostile attitudes” towards American values and institutions.
✦ What This Means for International Students
If approved, the rule could significantly impact thousands of international students enrolled at universities across the US, including prestigious institutions like Harvard, MIT, and Stanford. Critics argue it may discourage global talent from choosing the United States for higher education, while supporters believe it will strengthen immigration control and security.