US visa rules impose four-year student stays and shorter periods for foreign journalists, including a 90-day cap for Chinese media workers.
The US visa rules announced Thursday will replace open-ended stays with fixed admission periods for foreign students, exchange visitors and overseas journalists.
Under the Department of Homeland Security’s final rule, F visas for international students, J visas for exchange participants and I visas for foreign media workers will no longer automatically cover an entire academic programme or employment assignment.
Instead, most students and exchange visitors will receive stays of up to four years. Foreign journalists will generally receive admission for up to 240 days. However, Chinese nationals holding journalist visas will face a shorter limit of 90 days.
How the US Visa Rules Will Work
Visa holders who need more time in the United States must apply to Homeland Security for an extension. Alternatively, they must leave the country and seek readmission before continuing their studies, exchange programme or media work.
The new US visa rules will take effect 60 days after publication in the Federal Register, subject to congressional review.
Homeland Security officials said the fixed periods would strengthen oversight of non-immigrant visa holders. They pointed to a substantial increase in foreign students, exchange visitors and journalists entering the United States.
The change also reflects the Trump administration’s immigration agenda. President Donald Trump has tightened controls affecting legal and illegal immigration since returning to office in January 2025.
As a result, the US visa rules will create deadlines for institutions, employers and visa holders. Those affected must now track stays and seek extensions.
