Chicago – July 16, 2026
The Trump administration finalized a rule ending open-ended, program-length stays for select visas, replacing them with fixed time limits. International students and exchange visitors will be capped at 4 years, while journalists are limited to 240 days (or 90 days for Chinese nationals).
The crackdown introduces strict limits on these visa categories:
- International Students & Exchange Visitors (F and J Visas): Limited to a maximum of 4 years. Students requiring more time, such as those in longer PhD programs, must apply for an extension. The grace period for finding employment post-graduation is also shortened from 60 to 30 days.
- Foreign Media (I Visas): Foreign journalists’ visas are generally capped at 240 days per entry.
- Chinese Nationals: Journalists are strictly limited to 90 days per stay.
Why the Change?
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) cited a massive increase in international student admissions and a goal of preventing visa misuse. The agency noted that many individuals have stayed indefinitely under the old “duration of status” system.
Next Steps & Requirements
Visa holders wishing to stay beyond their fixed authorized periods must apply for a formal extension through USCIS before their allowed stay expires, or leave the country and seek readmission. The rule takes effect 60 days post-publication in the Federal Register, pending congressional review.
