Major Changes to F-1 J-1 and I Visas What International Students Must Know

Is "Duration of Status" (D/S) still active for international students right now? Yes, but its elimination is currently moving through final federal clearance. On May 5, 2026, DHS officially advanced the final rule to the Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs (OIRA) for final review. The rule is expected to be published imminently, with a hard implementation target set for September 2026 to catch the incoming fall academic semester. Once active, open-ended D/S notations are completely banned; every F, J, and I nonimmigrant will receive a rigid, calendar-controlled deadline on their I-94. The Daniels Legal Group PLLC is advising students and Texas universities to audit their visa timelines immediately. Call 866-524-3315 for an active risk evaluation.  

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has submitted a final rule that will reshape the landscape for international students holding F-1, J-1, and I visas. This rule, expected to take effect in September 2026, ends the long-standing Duration of Status (D/S) system and introduces a fixed admission period capped at four years. This change is the most significant update to student visa policies in over 30 years, yet many students remain unaware of what lies ahead.

Understanding these changes is crucial for current and prospective international students. This post breaks down the four key changes, explains their impact, and offers practical advice to help students navigate the new system.

University campus with international students, symbolizing visa changes

Four Key Changes to Student Visas

1. Four-Year Hard Cap on Admission Periods

Under the new rule, the admission period for F-1, J-1, and I visa holders will be tied to the program end date listed on Form I-20 (for F-1) or DS-2019 (for J-1), but capped at a maximum of four years. This means:

• Students enrolled in programs longer than four years, such as PhD candidates or medical residents, will need to apply for an extension using Form I-539 with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

• Extensions will no longer be automatic or based on the Duration of Status system.

• Students should plan ahead to file extension requests well before their admission period expires to avoid falling out of status.

  
  

Example: A PhD student in engineering with a program length of six years will receive an initial admission period of four years. After four years, they must file for an extension to complete their degree legally.

2. Grace Period Reduced from 60 to 30 Days

Currently, F-1 visa holders have a 60-day grace period after their program ends to prepare for departure or apply for a change of status. The new rule cuts this grace period in half to 30 days. Key points include:

• Missing the 30-day window by even one day will result in automatic loss of status.

• Students must be vigilant about their program end dates and plan their next steps accordingly.

• This change increases the urgency for students to finalize travel plans, apply for Optional Practical Training (OPT), or file for extensions promptly.

  
  

3. Restrictions on Program and School Changes

The rule introduces tighter controls on changing academic programs or schools:

• Students cannot change their program or major within the first year of their admission period.

• Graduate students face even stricter restrictions throughout their entire program.

• These limits aim to reduce visa misuse but may affect students who decide to switch fields or institutions early in their studies.

  
  

Example: A master’s student who wishes to switch majors within the first year will be unable to do so without risking their visa status. Graduate students must carefully consider their program choices before enrolling.

4. Unlawful Presence Begins Immediately After I-94 Expiration

The new system will start counting unlawful presence the day after the I-94 form expires, which marks the end of the authorized stay. This means:

• Students must apply for extensions before their authorized stay ends to avoid accruing unlawful presence.

• Accumulating unlawful presence can lead to serious consequences, including bans on re-entry to the U.S.

• This change particularly affects students in longer or multi-stage programs who may need multiple extensions.

  
  
  
  

What This Means for International Students

These changes will require students to be more proactive and organized in managing their visa status. Here are some practical tips:

• Track Your Program End Date: Know the exact date on your Form I-20 or DS-2019 and mark it on your calendar.

• Plan Extensions Early: If your program exceeds four years, start preparing your extension application well in advance.

• Be Mindful of Grace Periods: Use the 30-day grace period wisely to avoid falling out of status.

• Avoid Early Program Changes: Consider your academic path carefully before enrolling, especially if you plan to change majors or schools.

• Consult Your International Office: Stay in close contact with your school’s international student office for guidance and updates.

  
  
  
  

When Will These Changes Take Effect?

The finalized rule is expected to apply to new students entering the U.S. starting September 2026. Current students who need to extend their stay beyond their program end date will likely have to submit extension requests under the new system.

This phased approach means:

• Students arriving before September 2026 will still be under the Duration of Status system until they apply for extensions.

• New students after this date will receive fixed admission periods capped at four years.

  
  

Preparing for the Future

The elimination of Duration of Status marks a major shift in how international student visas are managed. While the new system aims to provide clearer limits and reduce visa overstays, it also places more responsibility on students to maintain their status.

Students in longer programs, such as doctoral studies or medical residencies, should especially prepare for the need to file extensions. Missing deadlines or misunderstanding the new rules could lead to loss of status and serious immigration consequences.

Remember: This post provides general information and should not replace legal advice. For personalized guidance, consult an immigration attorney or your school’s international student office.