The United States government is considering extending the validity of visa security clearances for international students, scholars, and scientists, according to comments made at a recent meeting of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), the US State Department, and science community stakeholders. But no definite changes have been decided on, nor a timetable set, DHS and State Department spokespeople told
"We're hopeful that we may be able to find a way to make changes that will balance out the national security needs with the needs of the individuals," said Bill Strassberger, spokesperson for DHS, without providing further details.
Kelly Shannon, a Bureau of Consular Affairs spokesperson, said that several improvements are being considered, including a review of visa reciprocity agreements, the mutually agreed upon number of entries into the country that visa applicants are allowed per visa.
But Shannon said the State Department urges the ...
