Big changes could be coming for international students in the USA. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is moving to replace the long-standing "Duration of Status" (D/S) policy for F-1 student visas and J-1 exchange visas with fixed-year visa limits.
The proposal, identified as RIN 1653-AA95, has cleared its final White House review and is expected to be released publicly soon. If implemented, this rule could completely change how students maintain their legal immigration status in the United States.
What Is Changing?
For decades, the Duration of Status policy allowed foreign students to stay in the U.S. for as long as they remained enrolled in a valid academic program, regardless of the number of years it took.
Under the proposed rule, visas will have a predefined expiry date, possibly shorter than many degree programs, meaning students might have to apply for visa extensions even before completing their studies.
Why This Matters for International Students
If the proposal becomes law, here’s how it could impact students:
- Mid-Program Visa Renewals – Students in multi-year degrees (like a Master’s in the USA or Ph.D. programs) may face visa expiration before graduation, forcing them to apply for an extension of stay within the U.S.
- Increased Costs – Each visa extension could involve USCIS filing fees, legal assistance costs, and other administrative expenses.
- Delays and Uncertainty – Visa extension processing can take months. Delays may affect students’ ability to continue classes, research, or participate in CPT (Curricular Practical Training) and OPT (Optional Practical Training).
- Stricter Unlawful Presence Rules – Currently, unlawful presence starts only after a formal violation finding. With fixed end dates, it could start the day after visa expiry if extensions aren’t filed on time.
Who Could Be Most Affected?
- Ph.D. and research students who often need 5+ years to complete their degrees.
- Students in STEM programs with heavy research components.
- Students who plan to work in the U.S. after graduation through OPT or H-1B visas.
How to Prepare for the Possible Rule Change
- While the rule is not yet final, here are steps international students can take:
- Stay Updated – Monitor announcements from DHS, USCIS, and the Federal Register for the official release.
- Budget for Visa Extensions – Plan for possible extra costs in your financial arrangements.
- Work with Your International Student Office – They will be the best source of personalized guidance.
- Maintain Strong Academic Standing – Visa extensions will likely require proof of continued enrollment and good progress.
Official Status of the Proposal
The rule, officially titled "Establishing a Fixed Time Period of Admission and an Extension of Stay Procedure for Nonimmigrant Academic Students, Exchange Visitors, and Representatives of Foreign Information Media", completed its White House Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs (OIRA) review on August 7, 2025. The review status is marked as "Consistent with Change", which means it’s cleared for publication in the Federal Register.
Bottom Line
If this rule is implemented, the U.S. student visa process will become more rigid and potentially more expensive. International students will need to plan ahead, stay informed, and prepare for visa renewals during their studies.
For now, the Duration of Status system remains in place, but the clock is ticking.
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