WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Trump administration has moved to fundamentally alter how foreign journalists operate within the United States, replacing the decades-old “Duration of Status” policy with strict, fixed-term limits. The decision, which impacts tens of thousands of media professionals currently in the country, has drawn sharp criticism from press freedom advocates who warn it could lead to self-censorship and reduced global transparency.
The End of “Duration of Status”
For years, foreign correspondents entering the US on “I-visas” were granted “Duration of Status” (D/S). This allowed them to remain in the country indefinitely, provided they remained employed by their foreign media outlet.
Under the new Department of Homeland Security (DHS) rule proposed in August 2025 and now moving toward enforcement, this open-ended stay is abolished. Instead, foreign journalists will be restricted to a fixed admission period of just 240 days (approximately eight months).
To remain beyond this period, journalists must apply for an extension, which is also capped at a maximum of 240 days. This creates a cycle of perpetual bureaucratic review, where a correspondent’s ability to stay in the country is constantly up for renewal.
“A Chilling Effect” on Coverage
Critics argue that the short leash will fundamentally change editorial calculations. With visa renewals required nearly every eight months, foreign outlets fear that critical coverage of the administration could result in visa denials.
“This transforms the visa from a standard administrative procedure into a potential tool of leverage,” noted a representative from the Committee to Protect Journalists. “If a reporter knows their status is under review three times every two years, the temptation to soften coverage to ensure approval becomes a distinct reality.”
The Scope of the Impact
While there is no live census of the foreign press corps, State Department data indicates that approximately 10,800 I-visas are issued annually. However, because many journalists stay for years under the old rules, the total number of media professionals residing in the US is estimated to be in the tens of thousands.
The administrative burden is expected to be heavy. News bureaus, many of which operate on tight budgets, will now face tri-annual legal and filing fees for every foreign staffer they employ.
Targeted Freezes: 19 Countries Blocked
The situation is even more precarious for journalists from 19 specific nations. Following an administration announcement on December 2, 2025, immigration benefits have been frozen for nationals of countries including Sudan, Yemen, Iran, and Burma.
For journalists from these regions, the path to a 240-day extension may already be closed. Even those currently holding valid visas face the risk of falling out of status immediately upon their expiration, with no option to renew and a high risk of deportation.
As the 240-day clock begins to tick, the foreign press corps in Washington faces a new reality: their presence in the United States is no longer a given, but a temporary privilege that must be repeatedly re-earned.
Would you like me to generate a similar report specifically focusing on the impact this has on journalists from Sudan or Yemen for your archives?
