Millions of international students, especially those from India, could soon face a major change in US student visa rules.
The US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has introduced a new proposal that would limit the stay of most F-1 student visa holders to a maximum of four years.
If this rule is approved, it will replace the long-standing “Duration of Status” system, which currently allows students to stay in the US as long as they continue their studies and follow visa rules.
Students May Need an Extension After Four Years
According to a Bloomberg report, the new rule will allow most F-1 visa holders to stay in the US for up to four years.
Students enrolled in courses, research programs, or degrees that take longer than four years will have to apply for an extension from DHS before their permitted stay expires.
If they fail to get the extension on time, their legal status in the US could be affected.
The proposed rule will not only apply to F-1 student visas.
It will also cover J-1 exchange visitor visas and I visas issued to foreign media representatives.
However, the proposal must first go through a review by the US Congress before it can become law.
Why Is the US Making This Change?
The Trump administration says the new rule is meant to improve monitoring of the student visa system and strengthen national security measures.
However, many US universities and education groups have expressed concern.
They believe the change could create uncertainty for thousands of international students, especially those pursuing longer academic programs.
At present, F-1 visa holders can remain in the US for the duration of their studies, provided they maintain full-time student status and follow all visa conditions.
The new proposal would end this system and replace it with a fixed time limit.
Indian Students Could Be the Most Affected
The proposed rule is expected to have a significant impact on Indian students.
According to the Open Doors 2024 report, more than 331,000 Indian students studied in US colleges and universities during the 2023–24 academic year.
They make up nearly 30% of all international students in the country.
Many Indian students choose programs such as PhDs, research-based master’s degrees, medical training, engineering research, and other professional courses that often take more than four years to complete.
If the new rule comes into effect, these students will need to secure an extension from DHS before their four-year stay ends in order to continue their education.
Missing an Extension Could Lead to Serious Problems
Experts warn that delays in getting an extension approved could create serious legal issues.
If a student’s permitted stay expires because of administrative delays, missing documents, or a rejected extension request, they could be considered to be in “unlawful presence” in the US.
This could affect future US visa applications, employment opportunities, and even the student’s ability to re-enter the United States in the future.
For now, the proposal is still under review and has not yet been implemented, but international students are being advised to closely follow future updates.
