The Trump administration has tightened visa regulations for foreign students. The previous 60-day grace period has been cut in half, meaning international students must now leave the United States within 30 days of graduation unless they secure employment or a visa extension.
The new regulation mandates that student (F) and cultural exchange (J) visas are generally capped at a maximum of four years. Additionally, the duration for media (I) visas has been reduced to 240 days.
Previously, journalist visas allowed foreign media representatives to remain in the U.S. for years; under the new policy, staying past the designated 240-day limit without a formal extension will render their stay illegal.
The 240-day limit does not apply to all nationalities equally. Chinese journalists are restricted further, with their visa duration capped at just 90 days. However, all visa holders are permitted to apply for extensions, regardless of their country of origin.
Prohibitions in the new regulations
