08/04/2026
🚨 F‑1 STUDENT STATUS UPDATE
DHS has issued a final rule ending “duration of status” (D/S) for F‑1 students.
Beginning September 15, 2026 (subject to congressional review), F‑1 students generally will be admitted through the program end date listed on their Form I‑20, up to four years—not for an open-ended duration of status.
Key changes include:
✅ USCIS approval generally will be required for additional time; an extended I‑20 alone will no longer be enough.
âś… English-language programs generally will be limited to 24 months.
âś… The post-program grace period will decrease from 60 days to 30 days.
âś… New restrictions will apply to certain school transfers and changes in educational objectives.
Current F‑1 students have transition rules. This does not mean every current student must leave on September 15, but advance planning will be essential.
If you have questions about whether this change may affect you, please contact Paskoff & Tamber, LLP at Visa311.com.
This post is general information, not individual legal advice.
Official rule: https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2026/07/17/2026-14439/establishing-a-fixed-time-period-of-admission-and-an-extension-of-stay-procedure-for-nonimmigrant
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is amending its regulations to change the admission period in the F, J, and I classifications from duration of status to an admission for a fixed time period, and additional changes to admission and extension requirements. This final rule will provide...
