Statement of Concern Regarding DHS’s Changes to Duration of Status

Statement of Concern Regarding DHS's Changes to Duration of Status

The Society for Neuroscience is concerned that the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) rule ending "duration of status" for international students and exchange visitors will disrupt scientific training, impose unnecessary administrative burdens, and weaken the United States' ability to attract and retain talented researchers.

The proposed rule would replace the current practice of tying admissions to the length of an individual's academic or exchange program with fixed periods generally capped at four years, requiring those on the threshold of discovery to consider leaving the U.S. rather than apply for an extension. This is particularly concerning for advanced scientific training, as many doctoral, research, and postdoctoral training programs extend beyond four years for research completion. Further, allowing these researchers to remain in the U.S. to complete their training and research would sustain work in U.S. laboratories and preserve investments in ongoing studies that advance discoveries benefiting the nation.

International graduate students and postdoctoral researchers are essential to neuroscience research and breakthroughs in the U.S. These scientists contribute expertise, ideas, and sustained effort that advance our understanding of the brain and nervous system and lay the foundation for new treatments. Interrupting their training or discouraging international students and postdocs from even pursuing research in the United States will undermine vital scientific contributions and the United States' leadership of the scientific enterprise.

SfN understands the need for effective immigration oversight. However, international students and exchange visitors already participate in an established and effective federal monitoring system. Any additional requirements imposed should address demonstrated needs, reflect the realities of scientific training, and preserve institutions' ability to guide academic progress. SfN urges DHS to retain the current duration of status and, in the future, to work with the scientific and higher education communities on policies that support compliance without disrupting research and education.

Currently, a federal court has temporarily blocked the change from taking effect while litigation continues. To continue to follow SfN's actions on this and other issues affecting the neuroscience community, visit www.sfn.org/advocacyresponse and sign up to receive the monthly SfN Advocacy Network Newsletter.