The United States government has announced plans to reduce the length of visas for international students and foreign journalists. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) said the new rule would limit F visas, which are used by students, to a maximum of four years.

Currently, student visas usually last for the entire duration of an academic program, meaning some students, such as doctoral candidates, can stay in the U.S. for more than five years.

For journalists, visas would be valid for 240 days, with the option to extend one time for another 240 days. Visas would not exceed the length of their assignments.

Any extensions would require applying through U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), including additional security checks. Previously, journalists from some countries, including Germany, could receive visas lasting up to five years.

DHS explained that past administrations allowed foreign students and other visa holders to remain in the U.S. almost indefinitely, which they said could create security risks, financial burdens, and disadvantages for U.S. citizens.

The department added that the changes aim to prevent visa abuse and improve oversight.

However, the new rule has drawn criticism from universities and higher education organizations. Miriam Feldblum, president of the Presidents’ Alliance on Higher Education and Immigration, warned that the changes could create problems for students and universities.

She said requiring students to apply more often could disrupt studies and research while adding extra work for schools. The uncertainty might also discourage talented students and researchers from coming to the U.S.