On July 17, 2026 the U.S. Department of Homeland Security published the final Duration of Status rule in the Federal Register, “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.” This rule will change how F-1/F-2 and J-1/J-2 international students and scholars and their families are admitted to the U.S. and the process for extending their stay. It will eliminate the long-standing "Duration of Status" (D/S) policy for F, J, and I nonimmigrants. It will replace “Duration of Status” admission with a fixed I-94 end date and will establish procedures for F/J visa international students and J visa scholars to file extension applications with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to extend their status. The rule will be effective on September 15, 2026.
Frequently asked questions:
When does the rule take effect?
What is Duration of Status (D/S)?
What are the changes in the rule?
If I travel and re-enter the U.S. on or after Septemeber 15, 2026, how will the rule affect me?
I am a current F-1 student and want to file for OPT or STEM OPT. How does the final rule impact me?
When do I file the form I-539 Application to Extend my Nonimmigrant Status?
How do I file the form I-539 Application to Extend my Nonimmigrant Status?
Resources:
U.S. Department of Homeland Security Quick Facts
U.S. Department of Homeland Security SEVP Webinar - August 31, 2026
