The Trump administration has announced stricter rules for student visas and stay regulations in the United States, creating concern among international students, including those from Bangladesh. According to the US Department of Homeland Security, the new policy will take effect in September to prevent visa misuse and strengthen national security. Key changes include reducing visa validity from five to four years, requiring federal approval for extensions, limiting institutional transfers, and shortening the post-study grace period from 60 to 30 days. Existing five-year visa holders will also fall under the new rules.

Bangladeshi-origin US lawyer Raju Mahajan said genuine students following the rules should not face major issues, but those misusing visas may encounter difficulties. Bangladeshi students studying in the US, such as Shahriar Nobel and Barnana Bhowmik, noted that the stricter policy mainly targets irregularities. The Optional Practical Training (OPT) work opportunity remains unchanged, allowing STEM graduates three years and non-STEM graduates one year of post-study employment.

Mahajan added that these measures align with the Republican Party’s efforts ahead of the November 2026 US election, following earlier restrictions such as social media checks and visa bonds for certain countries.