The United States has announced proposed changes to its visa policy that would introduce fixed periods of stay for Nigerian and other foreign nationals on student, exchange visitor and foreign media visas, replacing the current “duration of status” system. The new rule is expected to take effect in September 2026, subject to congressional review.
The proposal, issued by the US Department of Homeland Security (DHS), will affect holders of F visas (students), J visas (exchange visitors) and I visas (foreign media representatives). Under the current policy, beneficiaries are allowed to remain in the United States for the duration of their academic programme or authorised employment, provided they maintain their visa status.
If implemented, affected visa holders will instead be granted a fixed period of admission, after which they must either depart the United States or apply for an extension through the appropriate immigration procedures. The DHS said the change is intended to strengthen immigration oversight and improve compliance with visa regulations.
According to the government notice, the regulation is scheduled to take effect 60 days after its publication in the Federal Register, pending congressional review. The proposal forms part of the Trump administration’s broader efforts to tighten immigration controls and enhance national security.
The DHS said the revised framework would enable immigration authorities to more effectively monitor visa holders, reduce cases of overstaying and improve enforcement of immigration laws, while maintaining lawful pathways for eligible students, exchange participants and foreign journalists.
