The White House is nearing a decision on a proposed rule that could significantly alter how long international students can remain in the US on F-1 visas.

The proposal, currently under review by the White House’s Office of Management and Budget (OMB), would replace the existing “duration of status” system, which allows foreign students to stay in the country as long as they are enrolled full-time in an approved academic programme.

Under the new rule, F-1 visa holders would generally be limited to a four-year stay and would need to renew their status through the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) after that period. Similar restrictions are also being considered for J-1 exchange visitors, along with additional limits for foreign media representatives holding I visas.

The proposal, listed under RIN: 1653-AA95, was submitted to the OMB’s Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs on Tuesday, placing it in one of the final review stages before possible publication.

The idea was first introduced during the previous Trump administration but faced strong opposition from universities and healthcare organisations. Critics argued that fixed stay limits could interrupt academic programmes, increase administrative hurdles, and place added emotional and professional stress on international students and researchers.

The latest development follows a series of recent policy changes affecting foreign students, including delays in visa interviews and reports that thousands of students experienced disruptions to their legal status, adding to uncertainty on US campuses.

Inputs from TOI

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