The United States Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has introduced a new rule that would impose fixed time limits on visas issued to Nigerian and other international students, exchange visitors and foreign journalists.
The proposal, published in a government notice on July 16, forms part of President Donald Trump's broader immigration reforms and would replace the current "duration of status" system.
Under the existing policy, holders of F visas for international students, J visas for cultural exchange participants and I visas for foreign media representatives are allowed to remain in the United States for the duration of their approved academic programme, exchange programme or employment.
If implemented, the new rule would instead assign fixed periods of stay to these visa categories, requiring affected individuals to seek extensions or renewals if they need to remain in the country beyond the approved timeframe.
The Department of Homeland Security said the proposal is intended to strengthen oversight of non-immigrant visa holders and improve immigration compliance.
The proposed rule has not yet taken effect and is expected to undergo the required regulatory process, including a public comment period, before any final decision is made.
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