Antiguan and Barbudan students planning to study in the United States could face new uncertainty under proposed changes to the US international student visa system.

The proposal by the US Department of Homeland Security would replace the current “Duration of Status” system for student and exchange visas with fixed admission periods of up to four years.

If approved, the changes could take effect before the Fall 2026 academic intake and may affect students enrolled in long-term programmes, particularly in medicine, engineering, law, computer science and research fields.

Under the existing system, international students can remain in the US as long as they maintain their academic status. Universities are currently able to approve extensions when students need more time to complete their studies.

The proposed rules would transfer that authority to US Citizenship and Immigration Services, requiring students to apply directly to immigration officials for extensions.

Education groups in the US have warned the move could increase delays and uncertainty because of existing immigration backlogs.

The changes could also affect Optional Practical Training (OPT), which allows international graduates to gain work experience in the US after completing their studies. OPT has become an important route for Caribbean students seeking professional experience abroad.

Critics say the proposal may discourage international students from choosing the US, while countries such as Canada, United Kingdom and Australia continue promoting more flexible immigration pathways for graduates.

The US government says the measures are intended to strengthen immigration oversight, prevent fraud and improve national security monitoring.

The proposed rule was submitted for review on 5 May and could be implemented around 60 days after official publication. Legal experts say it may still face court challenges from universities and advocacy groups.