USA tightens visa rules

By John KakandeTHE Unites States is tightening visa rules for foreign visitors and students, effective next month.The hitherto common visa that guarantees a minimum six-month admission period for visitors is being scrapped.Visitors will now be given visas to stay in the US for “a period of time that is fair and reasonable for the completion of the purpose of the visit,”“When the time needed to accomplish the purpose of the visit cannot be determined, the Immigration and Naturalisation Service (INS) will grant a 30-day period of admission.” The new rules were announced on April 8, by INS and are open to public comment for 30 days before taking effect.Tourist and business visitors will be required to explain the nature and purpose of their visit so that INS can decide an appropriate length of stay.The new visa rules are meant to address security needs and deter illegal immigration, the State department’s Washington File reported on Friday.Under the new regulation, “individuals planning to attend school in the US are expected to obtain the proper student visa prior to their admission to the US.”The earlier rule will continue to apply to foreign students who had enrolled in US schools before the new regulation.