The United States has long attracted some of the brightest minds worldwide, with its universities acting as leading centres for innovation, research, and cultural exchange. International students on F-1 visas have contributed significantly to the US economy and academic landscape under a flexible visa framework that allows them to remain in the country for the duration of their studies and authorised work.
However, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has proposed a new rule that would replace the current “duration of status” system with a fixed four-year cap on student visas. This change, as reported by the INUS News, has sparked concerns over its potential effects on America's ability to attract and retain global talent.
The current visa system and proposed changes
Since 1979, the F-1 visa has permitted international students to stay in the US as long as they are enrolled full-time at an accredited institution or engaged in authorised practical training. The Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) closely monitors students' status, with designated officials reporting changes in enrolment and employment authorisations. Non-compliance can result in deportation.
DHS's proposal would limit students' stay to four years, requiring extensions through US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) for those needing more time to complete their education or participate in Optional Practical Training (OPT). The department claims this measure aims to prevent “forever students” from indefinitely remaining in the US. However, as quoted by the INUS News, DHS data shows only around 2,100 F-1 visa holders who entered between 2000 and 2010 remain in the US today—a very small number compared to millions of visas issued during that period.
Economic contributions of international students
International students inject approximately $50 billion annually into the US economy through tuition, living expenses, and other spending, as reported by the INUS News. In the 2023–24 academic year, only 19% of these students relied primarily on university funding, with most paying full tuition—often exceeding rates for domestic students. This revenue helps subsidise education for US students and taxpayers.
Many international students pursue degrees in high-demand fields such as science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). Their participation in OPT allows graduates to work in the US for up to 36 months, contributing vital skills to industries crucial for American competitiveness. DHS's proposed restrictions risk deterring these students, potentially affecting the US economy and innovation.
Bureaucratic challenges and academic flexibility
Under the proposed rule, oversight of F-1 students would shift from SEVIS to USCIS, requiring extension applications for stays beyond four years. This affects students enrolled in longer degree programmes, such as PhDs, which often take five to six years, and those seeking to participate in OPT.
The reduction of the post-graduation grace period from 60 to 30 days further limits time for students to manage visa status changes. USCIS already faces a backlog of 3.8 million cases. Adding approximately 243,000 OPT participants and numerous extension requests could increase delays, cause status gaps, and risk unlawful presence for some students, as noted by the INUS News.
The rigidity of the four-year cap also affects academic plans. Transferring universities, changing majors, or extending studies for valid reasons would require an extension, which is a time-consuming and uncertain process. This inflexibility might force students to abandon their academic goals or choose other countries with more accommodating visa policies.
Global competition for talent
Countries like Canada, Australia, and the United Kingdom have streamlined visa processes to attract international students. The US's proposed rule could reduce its appeal, signalling that students may study but face barriers to staying or working post-graduation.
International students often become lifelong advocates for the US, promoting American values and strengthening diplomatic ties. The proposed DHS changes risk alienating this influential group, potentially affecting US soft power, as reported by the INUS News.
Looking ahead: the future of the F-1 visa program
Experts quoted by the INUS News suggest alternative reforms such as a ten-year F-1 visa window. This would allow students to move between undergraduate, graduate, and OPT programmes or transition to other visa statuses without frequent extension applications. Enhanced enforcement within the current system could address abuses without penalising the majority.
The F-1 visa remains a cornerstone for attracting global talent to the US. The DHS proposal's impact on academic, economic, and diplomatic fronts will be closely watched as the debate continues.