U.S. Introduces New Stay Rules and Closes Loophole for International Students
The United States has announced updated regulations for international students, exchange program participants, and foreign journalists. The Department of Homeland Security has revoked a policy that previously allowed holders of F, J, and I visas to remain in the country without a fixed period of stay.
Under the new rules, foreign nationals will now be subject to a defined period of authorized stay. The changes will directly affect thousands of people planning to study or participate in training programs in the United States.
What has changed?
Previously, international students could remain in the U.S. for many years by transferring from one academic program to another. The new regulations eliminate this loophole.
Students will now be allowed to stay in the United States only for the duration of their studies, with a maximum limit of four years. In addition, applications to extend their stay must now be submitted directly to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and will require biometric processing, rather than being handled through their educational institution.
The grace period for leaving the country after completing studies has also been shortened. Graduates will now have 30 days instead of the previous 60 days to depart the United States.
The new regulations will take effect in two months and will also apply to international students who are already studying in the United States.
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