Jamaican students urged not to let tighter US visa rules derail study plans

 

As concerns mount over tighter visa rules for foreign students, Jamaican students who plan to study in the US are being urged not to allow uncertainty to derail their plans.

 

The Trump administration last Thursday gave final notice of plans to implement stricter rules on foreign students, including preventing them from staying in the US for more than four years unless they get permission from the federal government. 

 

Still, immigration attorney based in the US, Xavier Francis, is advising locals hoping to study in America that there is no need to halt their plans following the latest immigration announcement.

 

The policy, meant to combat rampant visa abuse and strengthen national security through regular vetting, is the latest chapter in a Trump's ever-expanding volume of policy changes. It comes into effect in September. 

 

Mr. Francis says this is one of the most significant changes to the F1 student visa programme in decades. 

 

"For nearly 50 years students could study in the US for the duration of their academic programme as long as they maintain their valid status. The new rule takes effect on September 15th. So the biggest concern here is uncertainty," he admitted.

 

Until now, higher education institutions had the power to grant visa extensions. 

 

Under the framework, international students will be stripped of the ability to switch programmes and transfer between universities and colleges.

 

Mr. Francis said Jamaican students should expect additional scrutiny, but those with genuine academic intentions should carry on with their plans for international studies.

 

"Track your expiration dates because each time you leave and enter the US you're going to have an expiration date on your I-94. Track your expiration dates, track your programme end date. If you believe that your studies will take longer than expected, be prepared to apply for an extension. Anticipate government processing delays, additional fees, and if you do these things, you will be okay," he suggested.