BREAKING: US Announces New Visa Rules for Nigerians, Other Visitors Starting September 2026

• The US has proposed a new visa rule that would limit student, exchange and foreign journalist to fixed terms, replacing the current “duration of status” system as part of broader immigration reforms.

The US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has proposed a new immigration rule that would impose fixed time limits on visas for Nigerian and other international students, exchange visitors and foreign journalists.

If approved, the regulation would replace the current system that allows holders of F, J and I visas to remain in the United States for the duration of their academic programme or employment.

Under the proposal, student and exchange visas would be limited to a maximum of four years, while foreign journalists would be allowed to stay for up to 240 days. Chinese journalists would face a shorter 90-day limit.

The rule, published on July 16, is expected to take effect 60 days after its publication in the Federal Register, subject to congressional review.

According to DHS, the changes are aimed at improving oversight of non-immigrant visa holders, citing a rise in student and exchange visitor admissions and cases of individuals remaining in the country for decades under the current system.

Visa holders who wish to remain beyond the approved period would be required to apply for an extension or leave the US and seek readmission.

The proposal is part of President Donald Trump’s broader immigration agenda since returning to office in January 2025.