25/07/2026
For decades, many international students, exchange visitors, and foreign media representatives entered the U.S. under the "Duration of Status (D/S)" system, allowing them to remain in the country as long as they maintained their immigration status.
That framework is now set to change! The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has issued a Final Rule replacing the D/S system with fixed periods of admission for F, J, and I nonimmigrants, introducing new compliance requirements for those who need additional time in the United States.
Key highlights:
🔹 The Duration of Status (D/S) system will be replaced with fixed periods of admission.
🔹 Most F and J nonimmigrants will be admitted for the duration of their approved academic or exchange program, up to a maximum of four years.
🔹 Individuals requiring additional time must file an Extension of Stay (EOS) with USCIS before their authorized stay expires.
🔹 Extension requests may include filing fees, biometrics, background checks, and USCIS review.
🔹 The grace period for many F-1 students after completing their program will be reduced from 60 days to 30 days.
🔹 Students planning to change schools, academic programs, or immigration status should carefully assess the immigration implications before making any changes.
🔹 The rule will become effective on September 15, 2026.
Students, educational institutions, exchange program sponsors, and employers should review these changes carefully and prepare for the new compliance requirements once the rule takes effect.