The US Department of Homeland Security has introduced new visa rules limiting foreign students to a maximum of four years in the country.This change affects international students with F visas, cultural exchange program participants with J visas, and foreign journalists with I visas.Doctoral programs, which often take five to seven years to complete, will be most impacted.The policy replaces the previous 'duration of status' system to combat visa abuse and enhance national security.Students will now need to apply for extensions periodically, with biometric checks and fraud screening.The grace period after studies has been reduced to 30 days, and students cannot change institutions or educational objectives without authorization.Media visas are capped at 240 days, while Chinese journalists receive 90-day visas.The move aims to ensure students focus on their studies and return home, addressing concerns about indefinite stays.