The United States government has unveiled plans to reduce the validity of visas issued to international students and foreign journalists, a move that has already triggered backlash from education advocates and media organizations.
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced on Thursday, that the proposed changes are aimed at tightening immigration rules, addressing national security concerns, and reducing what it described as “loopholes” that have allowed visa holders to remain in the country for longer than necessary.
Under the new policy, F visas for international students would be capped at a maximum of four years.
Currently, students are granted visas covering the full length of their academic program, which often extends beyond five years for doctoral candidates and research scholars.
The DHS argued that granting visas for extended academic programs has created opportunities for abuse, with some students overstaying or engaging in activities outside their visa conditions.
“For too long, past administrations have allowed foreign students and other visa holders to remain in the US virtually indefinitely,” the agency said in a statement.
“This practice poses security risks, financial burdens, and disadvantages U.S. citizens.”
The proposal also includes major changes for international journalists.
Reporters and correspondents would now be issued visas with an initial validity of 240 days less than a year.
They could apply for a one-time extension of another 240 days, but the total visa duration would not exceed the length of their official assignment.
This marks a sharp shift from previous practices, where journalists from countries like Germany were granted visas valid for up to five years.
All extensions would require applicants to file with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), triggering additional security checks and review.
The announcement has sparked criticism across the U.S. higher education sector, which relies heavily on international students for diversity, academic exchange, and financial support.
Miriam Feldblum, president and CEO of the Presidents’ Alliance on Higher Education and Immigration, warned that the rule could have damaging consequences.
“The rule would force international students and scholars to regularly submit additional applications, disrupting their studies and straining university operations,” she said.
“The uncertainty created by these changes could deter global talent from choosing the U.S. as their destination for education and research.”
Education experts also fear that countries like Canada, the United Kingdom, and Australia already strong competitors in the international education market could benefit from the policy shift as students seek more predictable and stable visa options.
Critics argue that the move reflects Washington’s growing shift toward restrictive immigration policies.
By linking student and journalist visas to national security concerns, analysts say the U.S. risks damaging its reputation as a global hub for free press, research, and academic excellence.
The DHS, however, insists that the reforms are necessary to prevent visa overstays, enhance oversight, and ensure that foreign nationals in the U.S. comply strictly with the purpose of their entry.
The proposal is now subject to public comment and review before it can be finalized, but stakeholders in education and journalism are expected to mount strong opposition in the coming weeks.
