U.S. President Donald Trump has once again put forward a controversial immigration proposal this time seeking to impose fixed-duration visas for international students studying in the United States.
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has submitted the proposal to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) for review and potential implementation.
Originally introduced during Trump’s first term in 2020, the plan has resurfaced during his second presidency as part of his renewed push for stricter immigration controls.
Under current U.S. immigration policies, international students holding F-1 visas, and participants in the J-1 cultural exchange program, are allowed to remain in the U.S. for the full duration of their academic programs or training.
However, if the proposed changes are approved, foreign students would be issued visas with a predetermined expiration date. Once the visa expires, students would no longer be allowed to remain in the U.S. unless they formally apply for an extension through immigration authorities.
Critics argue that the move could create uncertainty and place additional bureaucratic burdens on international students, while supporters claim it would enhance oversight of visa compliance and national security.
The proposal remains under review and has yet to be enacted into law.
