The United States government has announced a significant shift in its visNigeria to enforce US-style visa policy on applicantsa policy for foreign nationals, targeting international students and journalists.
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) stated on Thursday that it plans to shorten the validity periods of certain visas, citing security risks, financial burdens, and the need to ensure better oversight of foreign visitors.
Under the proposed rules, F visas, which allow international students to pursue studies in the U.S., would now be capped at a maximum of four years.
Previously, these visas were often granted for the entire length of the academic program, sometimes exceeding five years for doctoral and research-intensive degrees.
“This new policy is designed to prevent visa abuse and maintain a secure and accountable immigration system,” DHS officials said in a statement.
“For too long, past administrations have allowed foreign students and other visa holders to remain in the United States virtually indefinitely, which presents security risks and may disadvantage U.S. citizens.”
In addition to students, the new regulations also target journalists entering the U.S. on media visas.
According to reports by the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), foreign media professionals would now receive visas valid for a maximum of 240 days, with the possibility of extending another 240 days if necessary.
However, the visa duration cannot exceed the length of their journalistic assignment, and any extension would require an application through the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), accompanied by additional security screenings.
Historically, journalists from countries such as Germany and the United Kingdom have received visas lasting up to five years, enabling them to work without frequent renewals.
The new policy is expected to reduce visa durations considerably, potentially impacting foreign correspondents, student researchers, and scholars who rely on extended stays.
The DHS argued that the move would enhance oversight, reduce administrative burdens on federal authorities, and prevent misuse of the U.S. immigration system.
“By limiting visa durations, we can ensure that students and media professionals comply with U.S. regulations while maintaining national security,” the department stated.
Despite these intentions, the announcement has met with strong opposition from the academic community.
Miriam Feldblum, President and CEO of the Presidents’ Alliance on Higher Education and Immigration, expressed concerns that the rule would disrupt the academic progress of international students and scholars.
“The proposed rule would force international students to submit frequent visa applications, creating unnecessary stress and administrative burdens for universities,” Feldblum said.
“This could deter talented individuals from choosing the U.S. for higher education or research opportunities, ultimately undermining the nation’s competitive advantage in global education and innovation.”
Universities and research institutions are particularly concerned about the impact on doctoral candidates and postdoctoral researchers whose studies and projects often extend beyond four years.
Faculty members warn that shorter visa durations may lead to interruptions in academic work, delays in research, and challenges in recruiting international talent.
The policy could also affect U.S. industries that rely on skilled foreign students and journalists, including STEM fields, media organizations, and multinational companies with research operations in the U.S.
Industry experts caution that frequent visa renewals may increase costs, reduce productivity, and limit access to high-caliber talent from abroad.
The DHS has indicated that it will accept public comments on the proposed changes before final implementation, a process that could take several months. Meanwhile, student groups and advocacy organizations are preparing to engage with policymakers to highlight the potential negative consequences on international education and journalism.
As the U.S. moves toward implementing stricter visa durations, the global academic and media communities will be closely monitoring the impact of these reforms.
Observers note that the policy represents a broader trend toward tighter immigration controls, reflecting ongoing debates over national security, economic priorities, and international collaboration.
The new visa rules, if enacted, are expected to take effect in the coming academic and fiscal years, with universities and media organizations adjusting their programs and assignments to comply with the shorter durations.
The US plans to shorten visa durations for international students and journalists, sparking concerns from universities and media organizations about potential disruptions.