09/04/2026
🚨 Important Update for International Students, Exchange Visitors, and Media
Representatives.
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has introduced a new rule that would end "Duration of Status" for F, J, and I visa holders. This is a significant shift impacting international students, exchange visitors, and media representatives by replacing the flexible "duration of status" with fixed time limits.
We have broken down the details of this policy change and how it might affect your current status. Under this new framework, visa holders will no longer be admitted for duration of status, but for a fixed period indicated on Form I-94 (up to 4 years for F/J visas and up to 240 days for I visas). Crucially, extending your program with your school official (DSO) or sponsor (RO) on your Form I-20 or DS-2019 will no longer automatically extend your legal status. Your Form I-94 expiration date is now the strict, governing deadline for your lawful
stay.
As you build your life and legacy here, we want to ensure you have the resources and guidance to protect it. Stay informed and learn more about what this means for your future here:
🔗https://www.torregozalegal.com/blog/the-end-of-duration-of-status-what-the-new-dhs-rule-means-for-f-j-and-i-visa-holders
If you have concerns about your immigration journey and need to plan ahead, our team is here to support you every step of the way.