The Department of Homeland Security-U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (DHS/USICE) last week submitted to the White House for review a proposed rule impacting international students, many of whom go on to participate in employer-sponsored STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT) programs. Once the White House Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs (OIRA) completes its review, the proposed rule is expected to be published in the Federal Register for comment.

DHS/USICE appears to be reviving a widely opposed 2020 proposed rule that among other things, changed F, J, and I nonimmigrant visa approvals from duration of status to a set period, e.g., four years for a four-year degree. NAFSA: Association of International Educators estimates it takes on average 4.69 years for an international student to complete a four-year degree.

The 2020 Proposed Rule required these international students to apply for an extension to complete their studies, training, or employment. In 2020, DHS argued the end duration of status approvals were necessary for national security reasons. At the same time, DHS pointed out the benefits of international students to the economy, and the harm that could result if these students choose to attend schools and work in other countries.

The 2020 Proposed Rule, published in September 2020, was not finalized before the Trump Administration left office and the Biden Administration rescinded it in July 2021. TechServe Alliance’s Government Affairs Team will continue to monitor the status of this proposal and report on next steps. Please contact us with any questions or concerns.

For more information, including background on the 2020 proposal, please review these links:
Bloomberg, “DHS Revives 2020 Effort to Restrict Student and Exchange Visas,” June 30, 2025
NAFSA, “Trump-Vance Administration Proposal to Replace Duration of Status,” June 27, 2025