The U.S. government announced a new policy on Thursday that will limit the duration of student visas, imposing stricter controls on the length of time foreign students can remain in the country. Under the new regulation, the validity of a student visa will be capped at the length of the student’s academic program, with a maximum of four years. Students will need to apply for extensions if they wish to stay beyond this period.

Previously, student visas were granted for the “duration of status” of the educational program, meaning the visa remained valid for however long the student was enrolled, plus optional practical training (OPT) time. OPT allows foreign students to work in the United States for up to three years after completing their studies.

The policy change marks a significant shift particularly for students in longer academic programs, such as Ph.D. candidates, whose programs often last six years or more. These students would now be required to submit extension applications during their studies and potentially face denials. The new rule also requires nearly all students seeking to participate in OPT to apply for extensions, potentially curbing the work opportunities previously available after graduation.

Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin defended the regulation, stating that for decades, foreign students had been allowed to remain in the U.S. indefinitely by continuously enrolling in courses, which he characterized as an abuse of the immigration system. He said the new limits will help the government better screen, vet, and monitor individuals residing in the country on student visas.

This adjustment is part of broader efforts by the administration to reduce legal immigration. Critics within the administration and its supporters have long viewed the student visa program as a means by which foreigners can extend their stays by enrolling repeatedly in different programs. Additionally, they have expressed concerns about the OPT program, arguing that it enables U.S. companies to hire foreign graduates without sufficient regulation, potentially disadvantaging American workers.

Universities and student advocacy groups have raised concerns about the potential impact of the new policy on international student recruitment and the overall attractiveness of U.S. higher education. They argue the extension requirements could create unnecessary bureaucratic hurdles and contribute to uncertainty for students.

The policy is expected to take effect in the coming months, though the implementation timeline and final details might be subject to further clarification and rulemaking procedures.