Secretary Mullin explained the change as an attempt to protect national security and prevent immigration fraud.
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has been sued by a coalition of university organizations and labor unions after the agency ended the “duration of status” policy for international students studying in the U.S. on student visas. Under the new rule, foreign students will be limited to four-year stays and required to undergo a federal review that includes submitting biometric information and security, identity, and fraud screening if an extension is needed.
When the policy update was announced, DHS Secretary Markwayne Mullin said, “For nearly half a century, the outdated ‘duration of status’ system has compromised national security and created an environment ripe for immigration fraud. For decades, foreign students have been admitted into the U.S. indefinitely, allowing thousands to abuse our immigration system by perpetually enrolling in courses to avoid having to leave the U.S.“
The plaintiffs have requested a preliminary injunction to halt the rule from being implemented, claiming it will place significant administrative burdens on both international students and the institutions that support them.
As the Lord Leads, Pray with Us…
- For Secretary Mullin and other members of DHS as they work to protect national security.
- For the judge hearing the lawsuit to be discerning in the interpretation of federal authority and U.S. laws.
Sources: UPI News, Department of Homeland Security
