Trump moves to shorten student, exchange and journalist visas

Summary

The Trump administration has proposed limiting the duration of F, J, and I visas for international students, exchange visitors, and journalists in the US to fixed periods with extension options.

Key Points
  • The Trump administration proposes capping F student and J exchange visas at four years, and I journalist visas at 240 days/90 days for China and Hong Kong passport holders.
  • Currently, these visas last for the entire duration of the academic program, employment, or assignment; the change would introduce fixed durations.
  • The proposal aims to enhance oversight of non-immigrant visa holders and requires public comments within 30 days.
  • The measure revives a similar 2020 initiative withdrawn by the Biden administration and follows Trump's increased scrutiny of legal immigration since returning to office.
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