New Student Visa Rules Replace 'Duration of Status' With Fixed Time Limits

On July 17, 2026, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security published a final rule replacing the current duration of status with fixed time periods for the length of stay for F and J visa holders, along with a formalized process for requesting extensions, now overseen by DHS.

What Changes

The current system allows F-1 and J-1 visa holders to remain in the United States for the duration of their academic or exchange program plus a grace period, without a fixed end date. Under the new rule:

• Students will receive a fixed admission period (typically 2–5 years) rather than an open-ended allowance
• Extensions of stay must be formally requested through DHS, which will review and approve or deny each request
• Procedures and timelines for requesting extensions will be formalized and publicly available
• J-1 exchange visitors face similar changes

This shift aims to increase government control and oversight of foreign student populations on U.S. campuses. International students currently in F-1 or J-1 status should not be immediately affected, but those entering after the rule takes full effect and those seeking extensions will need to navigate the new process.

For international students and scholars, begin tracking your admission period and any deadlines for extension requests. Contact your designated school official (DSO) or exchange program coordinator well before your authorized stay expires. Budget time and money for the extension application, as processing may take several weeks. If you plan to transition to employment-based immigration (OPT, H-1B, etc.) after graduation, file those applications before your F-1 or J-1 status expires.

Sources

• UC Davis Services for International Students & Scholars — 2026 Updates
• Washington University OISS — Immigration Updates