WASHINGTON: The United States has introduced stricter regulations for foreign student visas, making visa extensions subject to enhanced scrutiny and mandatory federal approval.
According to the US Department of State, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has issued a final rule that formally eliminates a legal loophole related to the duration of stay for certain non-immigrant visa holders.
Officials said the loophole had allowed foreign students, exchange programme participants and foreign media representatives to remain in the United States for indefinite periods without routine government oversight.
Under the new regulations, holders of F, J and I category non-immigrant visas will now be admitted for a fixed period of stay.
The State Department said F and J visa holders will generally be allowed to remain in the United States for a maximum of four years. Any extension beyond that period will require mandatory federal approval.
Applicants seeking visa extensions will also be required to undergo biometric verification, background checks and additional screening for possible fraud.
The new rules also shorten the grace period for F-1 student visa holders after completing their studies. Students will now have 30 days, instead of the previous 60 days, to leave the United States after finishing their academic programme.
