Home / Education / Judge Halts New Student Visa Rule
Judge Halts New Student Visa Rule
15 Sep
Summary
- New rule for international students blocked by federal judge.
- Judge cited national security concerns as questionable.
- Existing 'duration of status' system remains in place.
A federal judge has issued a nationwide preliminary injunction, temporarily blocking a new U.S. rule that would have replaced the "duration of status" policy for international students, exchange visitors, and foreign media representatives. The rule, which was scheduled to take effect on September 15, is now on hold while litigation proceeds.
U.S. District Judge F. Dennis Saylor IV expressed skepticism regarding the government's national security claims, describing them as "bordering on the absurd" and based on insufficient evidence. The judge also noted the Department of Homeland Security's failure to adequately respond to arguments presented by the plaintiffs.
The original rule aimed to replace the current flexible "duration of status" system with a fixed period of admission, typically not exceeding four years, tied to the program's end date. This would have required students to apply for extensions of stay and could have restricted changes in educational objectives or transfers.
This preliminary injunction preserves the existing "duration of status" framework for now. The government is expected to appeal the injunction, and a status conference is scheduled for October 2 to further address the ongoing legal challenge.
