U.S. to change visa regulations for foreign students, journalists

‌The U.S. Department of Homeland ​Security moved ⁠to amend visa regulations for foreign students and journalists ‌on Thursday (July 16, 2026), replacing the more open-ended ‌stays that ‌are ⁠currently stipulated, according ⁠to a government notice.

The new final rule would create ​a fixed time period for F visas for international students, J visas ‌that allow visitors ​on cultural exchange programs to work ⁠in the U.S., and I visas for members ‌of the media. Those visas are currently available for the duration of the program or ‌U.S.-based employment.

The move is ​subject to congressional review before ⁠an effective date can be ⁠determined, DHS said in a ‌posting in the Federal Register.