Thousands of international students planning to study in the United States, including many from Kenya, will now face stricter immigration requirements following major changes announced by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS).Under the new regulations unveiled on July 16, most international students on F and J visas will be allowed to stay in the United States for a maximum of four years.
The move marks a significant shift from the long-standing “duration of status” system, which allowed students to remain in the country for as long as they were actively enrolled in their academic programmes.
For many years, international students did not have to worry about a fixed end date on their stay as long as they complied with visa conditions and continued their studies.
The new rule changes that arrangement by introducing a specific time limit on student stays. Students whose courses extend beyond four years will now be required to apply for an extension through U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
The extension process will involve additional checks, including biometric screening and background reviews before approval can be granted.
The changes are expected to affect students pursuing longer academic programmes such as doctoral degrees, as well as those who may need extra time to complete their studies due to research requirements or other academic reasons.
Universities and education groups in the United States have previously expressed concerns that the new system could create additional administrative burdens for both students and institutions.
Another major change involves the grace period granted after completing studies. Previously, F-1 students were allowed to remain in the country for up to 60 days after finishing their programmes before leaving or changing their immigration status. Under the new rules, that period has been reduced to 30 days.
The regulation is part of broader immigration reforms being implemented under President Donald Trump’s administration. DHS says the changes are intended to improve oversight of visa holders and strengthen monitoring of foreign nationals staying in the country. Officials argue that fixed admission periods will make it easier to track compliance with immigration rules.
The new framework is scheduled to take effect 60 days after its publication in the Federal Register.
Students already studying in the United States, as well as those planning to begin their studies in the coming months, are expected to closely monitor the changes and understand the new requirements before making academic and travel plans.
