International students planning to study in the United States will face major changes to visa rules starting from the 15th of this month.
Until now, students could stay legally in the United States for the entire duration of their studies. That standard arrangement is now being scrapped.
In its place, students will be permitted to stay in the country for a fixed period based on their course of study. That period will be determined by the study duration listed on Form I-20, the “Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status.” Under no circumstances, however, can this period exceed four years.
This change also has a major impact on the rules for students leaving the country. Previously, students had 60 days to leave the United States after completing their studies or training. Under the new rules, that period has been cut to just 30 days.
Within this short window, a student must either leave the United States or legally change their status through some other valid means. As before, however, the option to enter the country at least 30 days before classes begin remains in place.
Special restrictions on this timeframe apply to certain students. For example, students going to learn English will get a maximum of 24 months, while public high school students will get only 12 months in total, including school holidays.
If someone’s studies are not complete within the set period, they will need to apply for an extension. This requires filling out a designated form, paying a fee, and obtaining approval from the relevant authority. Additionally, those whose visas remain valid can, if they choose, take a trip out of the country to obtain a fresh grant of time.
Overall, foreign students in the United States will now need to be far more careful and aware about their study timelines and paperwork.