US Limits F, J, and I Visas for Students and Journalists

The United States government has announced new US student visa restrictions affecting international students, cultural exchange participants, and foreign journalists. The Trump administration says the changes are aimed at strengthening immigration control and preventing visa abuse.

Key Changes in US Student Visa Restrictions

The new policy limits visa durations as follows:

• F Visas (Students): Capped at four years, even if the academic program takes longer.
• J Visas (Cultural Exchange): Also limited to four years.
• I Visas (Journalists): Restricted to 240 days, with possible extensions. Journalists from China face a 90-day cap.

These changes could affect graduate students and PhD candidates, whose programs often exceed four years due to research or program adjustments.

Why the US Student Visa Restrictions Are Needed

According to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), the restrictions will:

• Reduce visa misuse.
• Improve oversight of foreign visitors.
• Minimize financial and security risks.

A DHS spokesperson explained, “Some foreign students have remained in the U.S. indefinitely, creating security risks and unfairly disadvantaging American citizens.”

Impact on Universities and Students

International students play a vital role in funding US higher education, often paying higher tuition fees than domestic students. In 2024, about 1.6 million students studied in the U.S. on F visas. Limiting visa duration may affect university funding, research projects, and student opportunities.

For example, some PhD and research programs often exceed four years, which could now require visa extensions and additional administrative steps.

Increased Scrutiny Under the Trump Administration

The Trump administration has also:

• Temporarily suspended student visa applications.
• Increased monitoring of applicants’ social media.
• Revoked visas for political activity.

One case involved a Turkish PhD student facing deportation after co-authoring an article urging her university to sever ties with Israel.

DHS Goals for New Visa Caps

The DHS aims to encourage visa holders to apply for extensions, allowing regular eligibility assessments. This ensures a controlled and safer participation of foreign students and journalists in the U.S.