On August 27, 2025, the Department of Homeland Security announced a proposed rule to end the “duration of status” (D/S) admissions policy for F-1 (student), J-1 (exchange visitor), and I-1 (foreign media) nonimmigrants. The proposed rule would transition current F-1s and J-1s on D/S to a maximum four-year admission as of the effective date of the final rule. Unlike most nonimmigrants, who are admitted for a set period, F, J, and most I nonimmigrants are currently admitted for D/S as long as they comply with the terms of their status.
Details of the proposed changes include:
- Fixed dates of admission for F-1 and J-1 nonimmigrants: F-1s and J-1s would no longer be admitted for D/S. Instead, they would be admitted for a fixed date range, not to exceed four years or their program length.
- Transition rules for F-1 and J-1 nonimmigrants in the United States: F-1s and J-1s currently in valid status within the United States would have valid status up through the program end date on their I-20 or DS-2019, on the date the final rule would be effective, not to exceed four years from the final rule’s effective date.
- For those who leave the United States during the pendency of a timely filed extension of status, upon seeking admission, their specific circumstances will determine whether they are limited to the maximum four years or a period previously authorized.
- Fixed dates of admission for I-1 foreign media representatives: I-1s would be admitted for a maximum of 240 days, or 90 days for Chinese nationals (not including Hong Kong/Macau).
- Extension of status required: These nonimmigrants would need to timely file an extension of status to extend their stay.
- F-1s who timely file an extension of status would be considered as remaining in status until U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) adjudicates the extension. While a timely filed extension is pending, Optional Practical Training, Curricular Practical Training, or hardship-based work authorization would be extended for a maximum of 240 days.
- J-1s who timely file an extension of status would be considered as remaining in status for either a maximum of 240 days or until USCIS adjudicates the extension, depending on the circumstances.
- Grace period reduction for F-1: The “grace period” for F-1s to leave the United States would be reduced from 60 days to 30 days.
- F-1 program restrictions: F-1 students would face restrictions in changing programs, and graduate students would be prohibited from doing so.
Comments on the proposed rule are due by October 27, 2025.
