America: Trump becomes strict regarding visa rules, now foreign students will have to take government permission to stay for more than 4 years
Washington. In America, the Trump administration has made preparations to further tighten the visa rules for foreign students. Under the new policy, foreign students will no longer be allowed to stay in the US for more than four years without permission from the federal government. This rule will especially affect students coming to the US on F-1 and J-1 visas. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has issued final information in this regard. The new system is likely to be implemented from September. The government says that these changes are aimed at preventing visa misuse and strengthening national security.
Time limit will be imposed on visa period
Till now, foreign students were allowed to stay in America under “Duration of Status”. This meant that students could remain in the United States until they completed their studies, even if it took longer than scheduled. Under the new policy, the period of students’ stay in America will be limited. They will have to complete their studies within the stipulated time frame or change to another visa category.
Impact on changing university and program also
According to the new rules, foreign students will also face additional controls on the process of changing universities or changing their academic program during their studies. Earlier higher education institutions had more powers in extending visa periods and approving some changes, but now the role of the federal government will increase.
Fear of greater impact on postgraduate students
Although most graduate programs in the United States are completed in four years, doctoral and research-based courses may take longer. A large number of foreign students go to the United States for higher education, especially in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields. The duration of these courses increases several times due to research work, lack of funding and personal reasons.
You will get only 30 days time after completion of studies
Under the new policy, foreign students will now get only 30 days to leave the US or change to another visa category after completing their studies. Earlier this period was 60 days.
Government said the step is related to national security
Department of Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin said that for a long time, foreign students have been given the facility to stay in the US for an indefinite period, which some people allegedly misused. He said that some people continued to enroll in new courses and abused the immigration system to avoid leaving the US.
Educational organizations expressed concern
Organizations associated with foreign students have criticized these changes. Organizations such as the International Union of Teachers and NAFSA say the new rules will increase uncertainty and administrative pressure among students and universities. NAFSA CEO Fanta Au said the policy would add fear and bureaucracy to a system that had long worked effectively.
Part of the Trump administration’s comprehensive immigration policy
These changes are considered part of a broader strategy of the Trump administration, which aims to limit the number of foreign students and total immigration to the US. Earlier, the administration had also taken steps towards limiting the number of foreign students in some major universities and canceling the visas of some students who criticize US foreign policy. After the implementation of the new policy, it can also have a direct impact on Indian and other countries’ students planning to study in America.
Comments are closed.