Washington( The COW News Digital) The Trump administration has announced a significant policy shift to restrict the duration of visas across several categories, including those for foreign students and journalists. The move, officials say, is aimed at preventing visa misuse and ensuring stricter monitoring of foreigners residing in the United States.
According to international media reports, the proposed regulation would overturn decades of precedent. Since 1978, holders of F visas — primarily foreign students — were allowed to remain in the U.S. for an indefinite period, provided they maintained their enrollment in educational programs. However, under the new proposal, foreign students would be restricted to staying only for the official length of their study programs, with a maximum cap of four years.
Similarly, foreign media representatives, who previously enjoyed more flexible residency terms, would be granted an initial stay of 240 days. Their visas could be extended only until the end of their specific assignment. In addition, both students and journalists would be subjected to regular compliance checks to ensure they adhered to visa conditions.
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security argued that the current indefinite stay system has harmed American citizens by creating loopholes that allow foreigners to remain in the country for extended periods without proper oversight. Officials insist the proposed reform is designed to safeguard national interests and strengthen immigration control mechanisms.
Critics, however, argue that the policy may deter international students and journalists from coming to the United States, potentially impacting the country’s reputation as a global hub for education and free press. Universities, in particular, could face a decline in foreign student enrollment, which contributes significantly to U.S. academic institutions and the economy.
This is not the first time former President Donald Trump has pushed for stricter visa regulations. In 2020, his administration introduced a similar proposal, which was later overturned by President Joe Biden’s administration. Trump’s renewed attempt to revive the policy reflects his broader immigration agenda, focused on tightening entry rules and reducing long-term stays for foreigners.
If enacted, the law will mark one of the most consequential changes in U.S. visa policy in decades. The final decision is expected to spark debate among policymakers, immigration advocates, academic institutions, and international press organizations.
