US Revives Trump-Era Plan to Limit F-1 and J-1 Visa Durations

Key Takeaways

• DHS proposes fixed two- or four-year limits for F-1 and J-1 visa holders starting July 1, 2025.
• Students must apply for visa extensions if programs exceed set durations, increasing paperwork and uncertainty.
• June 18, 2025, visa appointments resumed with stricter social media screening for F and J visa applicants.

The United States 🇺🇸 is moving forward with a major change to its student visa policy, reviving a plan first introduced during President Trump’s administration. As of July 1, 2025, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has sent a draft regulation to the White House Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs (OIRA) that would set fixed time limits on international students holding F-1 and J-1 visas. This proposal could reshape how international students and exchange visitors plan their studies and stay in the United States 🇺🇸, raising important questions for students, universities, and the broader academic community.

What’s Changing for International Students?

Who is affected?
The proposed rule targets international students and exchange visitors who come to the United States 🇺🇸 on F-1 and J-1 visas. F-1 visas are for students enrolled in academic programs, while J-1 visas are for those participating in cultural exchange programs, including scholars, researchers, and trainees.

What is the proposal?
If the rule is approved, F-1 and J-1 visa holders will be granted entry for a fixed period—either two or four years—depending on their program. If their studies or exchange programs last longer than these caps, they must apply for an extension to remain in the country. This is a big shift from the current system, where students are allowed to stay for the full length of their program as long as they maintain their student status.

When could this happen?
The DHS has already sent the draft regulation for review, which is the last step before it is published for public comment. The exact date for the public comment period has not been announced, but the rule could take effect as soon as late 2025 or early 2026.

Where does this apply?
This change would affect all international students and exchange visitors in the United States 🇺🇸 who hold F-1 or J-1 visas, regardless of their school or program.

Why is this happening?
The main reason given by DHS is to improve immigration control and reduce the risk of people overstaying their visas. The government believes that fixed time limits will make it easier to track visa holders and ensure they leave the country when their programs end.

How will it work?
Students and exchange visitors will receive visas with a set expiration date. If their program is longer than the allowed time, or if they need extra time for research, internships, or other reasons, they must apply for an extension through U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). This process could involve extra paperwork, fees, and waiting times.

How the Current System Works

Right now, international students and exchange visitors are admitted under a rule called “duration of status” (D/S). This means they can stay in the United States 🇺🇸 for as long as their academic or cultural exchange program lasts, plus any authorized practical training and a 30-day grace period to prepare to leave the country. There is no fixed end date on their visa as long as they follow the rules and remain enrolled or active in their program.

This system has been in place for many years and is popular with universities and students because it allows flexibility. Students can extend their studies, take part in internships, or handle unexpected delays without worrying about their visa expiring.

The History Behind the Proposal

The idea of setting fixed time limits on F-1 and J-1 visas is not new. President Trump’s administration first proposed this change in 2020, arguing that it would help prevent visa overstays and improve security. However, the proposal faced strong opposition from universities, student groups, and academic organizations. Critics said it would create unnecessary stress for students, disrupt academic programs, and make the United States 🇺🇸 less attractive to international talent.

When President Biden took office, his administration formally withdrew the 2020 rule in 2021, keeping the duration of status policy in place. Now, in 2025, the DHS has revived the proposal, signaling a renewed focus on stricter immigration controls for international students.

What Fixed-Term Visas Would Mean for Students

Increased Uncertainty

One of the biggest concerns is the uncertainty this rule would create for international students, especially those in longer programs. For example, students working toward a PhD, medical residency, or other advanced degree often need more than four years to finish their studies. Under the new rule, these students would have to apply for extensions, which could involve extra paperwork, fees, and the risk of being denied.

More Administrative Burden

Applying for a visa extension is not always simple. Students would need to gather documents, fill out forms, and possibly attend interviews. There could be delays if USCIS is backlogged or if there are problems with the application. This extra burden could distract students from their studies and add stress to an already challenging experience.

Impact on J-1 Exchange Visitors

J-1 visa holders already have program-specific maximum durations. For example, professors and research scholars can stay up to five years, while physicians can stay up to seven years. Other categories have shorter limits. The new rule could standardize or even shorten these durations, but the exact details are not yet clear. This could affect visiting scholars, researchers, and others who rely on the flexibility of the current system.

Opposition from Universities

Many universities and academic organizations have spoken out against fixed-term visas. They argue that these rules would disrupt academic programs, make it harder to attract top international talent, and hurt the United States 🇺🇸’s reputation as a welcoming place for students from around the world. According to analysis by VisaVerge.com, university leaders worry that more rules and paperwork could push students to choose other countries for their studies.

Recent Updates: Visa Appointments and Security Checks

On June 18, 2025, the U.S. Department of State resumed visa appointments for F and J visa applicants. At the same time, the government introduced stricter social media vetting as part of the application process. This means that students and exchange visitors must now provide more information about their online activities when applying for a visa. These changes show a broader trend toward tighter security and more careful screening of international students.

What Should International Students Do Now?

With these changes on the horizon, international students and exchange visitors should take several steps to prepare:

• Monitor Official Announcements: Keep an eye on updates from the DHS and the Federal Register, where new rules are published for public comment. This is the best way to stay informed about when the new rule might take effect.
• Prepare for Possible Extensions: If you are in a program that lasts longer than two or four years, start gathering the documents you might need for a visa extension. This could include proof of enrollment, transcripts, and letters from your school.
• Consult Your University’s International Office: Most universities have offices that help international students with visa issues. They can provide guidance, answer questions, and help you with paperwork.
• Schedule Visa Appointments Early: With visa appointments now open again, it’s a good idea to schedule your interview as soon as possible. Delays are common, especially during busy times.
• Stay Informed About Policy Changes: Immigration rules can change quickly. Sign up for updates from your school, the U.S. Department of State, and other trusted sources.

How to Apply for a Visa Extension

If the new rule is approved, students who need more time in the United States 🇺🇸 will have to apply for a visa extension. This process is handled by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). The main form used for this is Form I-539, Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status. You can find the official form and instructions on the USCIS website.

Here’s what the process usually involves:

1. Complete Form I-539: Fill out the application with your personal information and details about your program.
2. Gather Supporting Documents: This may include your passport, I-20 or DS-2019 form, proof of enrollment, and financial documents.
3. Pay the Filing Fee: There is a fee for filing Form I-539. Check the USCIS website for the current amount.
4. Submit Your Application: You can file online or by mail. Make sure to keep copies of everything you send.
5. Wait for a Decision: Processing times can vary. You may be asked to provide more information or attend an interview.

It’s important to apply for an extension before your current visa expires. If you wait too long, you could fall out of status and face problems staying in the United States 🇺🇸.

What Are the Main Concerns?

Academic Disruption

Many experts worry that fixed-term visas could interrupt students’ education. If a student’s extension is delayed or denied, they might have to leave the country before finishing their degree. This could be especially hard for students in research-heavy fields or those who need extra time for internships or practical training.

Attracting International Talent

The United States 🇺🇸 has long been a top destination for international students. Many universities rely on these students for their academic and cultural contributions. If the visa process becomes more difficult, students may choose to study in other countries with more flexible rules.

Administrative Challenges

Universities and government agencies could face more paperwork and longer processing times. This could slow down admissions, delay research projects, and create confusion for everyone involved.

Security and Overstay Concerns

Supporters of the new rule argue that fixed-term visas will help prevent people from staying in the United States 🇺🇸 after their program ends. They believe that having a clear end date will make it easier to track visa holders and enforce immigration laws.

What Do Stakeholders Say?

• Higher Education Experts: Many say that the new rule could hurt the United States 🇺🇸’s ability to attract the best and brightest students. They worry about the impact on research, innovation, and international collaboration.
• Government Officials: DHS and USCIS officials say they are trying to balance security with the need to keep the United States 🇺🇸 open to international students. They argue that fixed-term visas are a reasonable way to manage immigration.
• International Student Advocates: Groups that support international students are concerned about the extra stress and paperwork. They say the rule could discourage talented students from coming to the United States 🇺🇸.

What Happens Next?

The proposed rule is now under review by the White House OIRA. Once it is published in the Federal Register, there will be a public comment period. This is a chance for students, universities, and others to share their opinions and suggest changes. After the comment period, DHS will review the feedback and decide whether to make changes before finalizing the rule.

If the rule is approved, it could take effect as early as late 2025 or early 2026. In the meantime, students should stay informed and be ready to act if the rules change.

Where to Find Official Information

For the most up-to-date and reliable information about F-1 and J-1 visas, students should visit the U.S. Department of State’s Student Visa page. This site has details about visa types, application steps, and important updates.

Practical Takeaways for International Students

• Stay informed: Watch for official announcements and updates about the proposed rule.
• Plan ahead: If your program is longer than two or four years, be ready to apply for an extension.
• Use university resources: International student offices are there to help you.
• Apply early: Don’t wait until the last minute to schedule visa appointments or submit paperwork.
• Speak up: During the public comment period, share your thoughts and concerns with DHS.

Conclusion

The revived plan to set time limits on F-1 and J-1 visas marks a major change in how the United States 🇺🇸 manages international students and exchange visitors. While the goal is to improve immigration control, the proposal raises important questions about academic freedom, administrative burden, and the country’s ability to attract top talent from around the world. As reported by VisaVerge.com, universities and student advocates are watching closely and preparing to respond. International students should stay alert, use available resources, and be ready to adapt as the situation develops.

Learn Today

F-1 Visa → A nonimmigrant visa for students enrolled full-time in academic programs in the U.S.
J-1 Visa → A nonimmigrant visa for cultural exchange participants, including scholars and trainees.
Duration of Status (D/S) → Current policy allowing students to remain as long as their program lasts plus authorized training.
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) → Federal agency managing visa applications, extensions, and immigration benefits.
Form I-539 → The application used by nonimmigrants to request an extension or change of their visa status.

This Article in a Nutshell

The U.S. plans to limit international students’ F-1 and J-1 visa stays to fixed terms by 2025, requiring extensions for longer studies. This shift adds administrative challenges, raises concerns about academic disruptions, and may impact the U.S.’s appeal to global talent amid tougher immigration controls.
— By VisaVerge.com