DHS Revives 2020 Effort to Restrict Student and Exchange Visas
For those of you who were working during the first Trump administration, you may remember the proposed shift from “duration of stay” to “duration of status.” This change would tie an international student’s visa directly to the length of their academic program — meaning a one-year pathway would receive a one-year visa, and a four-year undergraduate program would result in a four-year visa. In 2020, this rule was met with strong opposition, generating more than 30,000 public comments — most of them against it. We anticipated its return and are now actively monitoring the process. We’ll keep you updated as new developments emerge.
US Citizenship and Immigration Services, the DHS subagency that administers temporary visa programs, sent a proposed rule to the White House Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs for review, the step before its released.
Another good article covering this issue - Trump proposes fixed-term stay for international students in US >
As Foreign Students Reconsider Coming to Boston, Local Businesses Prepare for Fallout
This is a great read — it not only explores the Trump administration’s impact on international students, but also highlights the broader business implications. Universities and their surrounding communities are deeply connected: students support local businesses, and vibrant, welcoming towns attract both domestic and international students. A thriving student population benefits everyone. Unfortunately, the current uncertainty facing international students and the ongoing attacks on higher education are making it harder for institutions — and the communities they serve — to grow and thrive.
“One of the secrets of American exceptionalism is not so much that the U.S. gives birth to talented people, it’s that the U.S. is a huge attractor of talented people,” Hausmann added.
“Universities are one of America’s largest exports. The million-plus foreign students that come to study to us [people living in the United States] represents a very significant export activity in which the U.S. has a very large surplus,” Hausmann said. “Now, one of the ingredients for that industry to exist, to survive and thrive, is for students to be allowed in. So, visas are an enabler of American exports.”
Sen. Mark Warner Warns that if Trump Administration Can Pressure University of Virginia President to Resign, “They Can Do it Anywhere”
While not directly about international students, this article highlights how the Trump administration is working to influence US higher education. Until now, most efforts have targeted Ivy League or elite institutions, but this latest action focuses on a state flagship university over its DEI policies. It’s also worth noting that the Department of Justice has launched an investigation into California’s UC system. As we continue to monitor international student policy, we’re also watching broader actions impacting higher education across the country.
“They want to take on public universities the way they have now taken on the Ivies,” Warner said. “This is going to hurt our universities. Chase away world-class talent. And frankly, if we don’t have some level of academic freedom, then what kind of country are we?”
