U.S. to formally shorten stays for students and reporters

2026-07-16

Students limited to a maximum of four years

The Trump administration on the 16th formally decided to revise rules to shorten the length of stay in the United States for international students and foreign reporters. The changes are expected to take effect as early as September, 60 days after clearing congressional review, and will affect study in Japan as well.

The notice will in principle limit the stay of students and researchers to a maximum of four years. Reporters will be limited to a maximum of 240 days, while Chinese reporters will be limited to 90 days. Those who stay beyond the deadline will need to apply to the Department of Homeland Security for an extension or leave the U.S. and re-enter.

Reporters limited to 240 days

For students, scrutiny of extension applications will be tightened. Extensions will in principle not be granted if they are unable to complete their studies, such as by being suspended. The grace period currently allowed after graduation for preparing to return home or completing transfer procedures will also be shortened to 30 days from the current 60 days.

Under the current system, visas are generally valid for five years, and stays in the U.S. have been allowed as long as studies or work continue. The Trump administration has been reviewing the system, saying some foreigners have abused it to stay long term.

Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem said in a statement that an outdated system had put national security at risk and had become a breeding ground for immigration fraud. She said that by setting clear deadlines, the U.S. will regain its ability to properly vet, screen and monitor individuals.

The Trump administration released a draft rule change in August 2025 and solicited public comments. Fifteen Japanese newspaper, wire service and broadcasting companies with reporting bases in the U.S., including Nikkei Inc., submitted comments to the Department of Homeland Security calling for a reconsideration of the changes to reporter visas.

According to the Department of Homeland Security, about 1.8 million international students entered the U.S. on student visas in fiscal 2024, up 11% from fiscal 2023. Reporters totaled about 37,000 in fiscal 2024, up 15% from the previous year.

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