Goa, July 16 -- International students in the United States, including more than 3.3 lakh Indians, could soon be subject to stricter immigration rules after the US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) finalised a regulation replacing the long-standing "duration of status" system with a fixed period of stay. The rule, which still requires congressional review before taking effect, is expected to significantly impact students enrolled in longer academic programmes.

Under the proposed framework, most F-1 student visa holders will be allowed to remain in the US for up to four years. Those whose courses extend beyond this period will be required to apply to DHS for an extension before their authorised stay expires. Similar fixed-term rules w...