Washington, D.C. — The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) new proposed rule would eliminate the current “duration of status” (D/S) policy for international students (F status) and exchange visitors (J status) and enforce other changes, such as requiring government approval of changes in major or changes in level of study. The following is a statement by Fanta Aw, Executive Director and CEO of NAFSA: Association of International Educators.
“Shifting from a ‘duration of status’ policy to a fixed expiration date is a bad idea for an administration that prides itself on advancements in efficiencies and ‘America First.’ These changes will only serve to force aspiring students and scholars into a sea of administrative delays at best, and at worst, into unlawful presence status—leaving them vulnerable to punitive actions through no fault of their own.
“The proposal represents a dangerous overreach by government into academia, as it would give USCIS oversight over decisions that have long been the domain of academia, including changes to a student’s course of study and to their level of study. International students and exchange visitors are already rigorously tracked in the SEVIS database and are the most closely monitored nonimmigrants in the country.
“Government interference into the academic realm in this way introduces a wholly unnecessary and new level of uncertainty to international student experience in the United States, as degree completion is now highly unpredictable. It will certainly act as an additional deterrent to international students choosing to study in this country, to the detriment of American economies, innovation, and global competitiveness.
“In reviewing the sprawling document, it is clear that the government has not explored more efficient and less bureaucratic alternatives. This proposal will only increase the degree of government oversight without any evidence that the changes would solve any of the real problems that exist in our outdated immigration system. It also flies in direct opposition to President Trump’s comments during his cabinet meeting on August 26 in support of international students in the United States. We welcome the opportunity to engage with the government to arrive at effective and appropriate solutions that ensure the United States remains the premier destination for global talent and keeps America safe and prosperous.”