OISS Makes Public Comment Against Proposed DHS Rule to Eliminate Duration of Status for International Students and Exchange Visitors.
On September 25, 2020, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) published a proposed regulation that would establish fixed end dates on student and exchange visitor visas, and many other changes. Currently, international students and scholars may stay in the United States for the duration of their program, with some PhD programs having a standard length of 7 years. Under this proposal, individuals applying to either F or J status would be limited to a 4 year stay.
Additionally, some international students and scholars would be limited to 2 years based on certain factors, including birth or citizenship in specific countries. Students and scholars of the targeted countries are almost exclusively persons of color and are disproportionately nationals of African countries.
If individuals were to need additional time to complete their program, including requests for legal work authorization after graduation, or would like to start a new degree or academic program, they would have to pay a fee and apply for an extension of stay to the USCIS and the application could be accepted or rejected. This proposed rule creates an unwelcoming and uncertain environment for international students and scholars.
OISS has submited a comment. We will continue to work with others at Tulane and nationwide to support our international community and advocate for the value of international students and scholars. Please reach out if you have any questions or concerns and know that Tulane is here for you.
Consider using the toolkit below to learn about how the proposed Department of Homeland Security rule about the elimination of DS (duration of status) would negatively impact international students and scholars and how anyone in the Tulane community can take action before October 26 to stop its implementation.
