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US “Duration of Status” Visa Rule Nears Final Approval
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The US government is moving closer to making major changes to its student visa system. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) proposed rule to eliminate the long-standing “duration of status” policy has now entered the final review stage at the White House Office of Management and Budget (OMB).
The move could significantly affect international students studying in the US under F, J, and I visa categories. Currently, many students are allowed to stay in the country for the full duration of their academic program as long as they maintain valid visa status. However, the proposed changes may replace that flexibility with fixed stay periods.
What Does “Duration of Status” Mean?
Under the current system, international students on F-1 visas can remain in the US as long as they continue their studies and follow visa rules. Their stay is linked to their academic program instead of a fixed expiration date.
Along with this, the proposal seeks to stop F-1 students from pursuing a second degree at the same or lower level after completing their studies and would shorten the grace period to 30 days instead of the current 60.
If the proposed US student visa rules are finalised, students may only receive permission to stay for a limited number of years, reportedly up to four years in many cases. Students who need more time to complete their degree may have to apply for extensions through US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
The proposal could also introduce additional compliance requirements, including biometrics submissions and stricter extension procedures.
Why Are Universities Worried?
Several universities and international education organisations have expressed concern over the possible impact of these F-1 visa changes. Experts believe that the new system may create uncertainty for students and increase administrative pressure on institutions.
There are also concerns that processing delays could affect students nearing graduation or those enrolled in longer academic programs such as PhDs and research-based degrees.
Some reports suggest the proposed rule may also reduce grace periods after course completion and make it harder for students to change academic programs during their stay.
Immigration experts have additionally warned that students could face stricter penalties if they overstay beyond their approved period. They further noted that the policy could intensify visa processing delays and create confusion among prospective students, adding to the challenges facing the US as an international study destination after a 17% fall in new enrolments last year.
What Happens Next?
The proposal is currently under final federal review before possible publication in the Federal Register. Once approved, the rule could come into effect within 60 days.
However, the final version of the rule has not yet been released publicly. This means there is still uncertainty around how much of the original proposal will remain unchanged.
“We expect OMB’s review to be expeditious and for the rule to be published in the Federal Register in the not-too-distant future.”
-Fanta Aw, NAFSA CEO
For now, international students in the US are being advised to closely follow immigration updates and stay connected with their university’s international student office for guidance. Universities are also preparing for possible operational and advising changes if the rule is implemented.
The proposed changes highlight the growing shift in US immigration policy and could reshape how international students plan their education journey in the country.