The US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has proposed a new rule that could bring an end to the “duration of status” system for foreign students. If approved, those on F visas would no longer be able to stay in the US for the full length of their academic program without filing for an extension. Instead, they would be admitted for a fixed period of up to four years, after which they must apply to US Citizenship and Immigration Services ( USCIS) for more time.
Currently, students can continue their stay as long as their program runs, with universities able to extend it by issuing an updated Form I-20. The new system would remove this flexibility and require fresh applications, biometric submissions, and USCIS review if programs last longer than the fixed period.
New 'fixed period of stay' limit for visas
For F-1 students, the maximum stay would be four years, including optional practical training, followed by a 30-day grace period. This is shorter than the current 60-day grace period. English language students would be allowed a maximum of 24 months, while public high school students would be limited to 12 months, as reported by Fragomen.
The rule also restricts changes in academic programs. Undergraduate F-1 students would not be allowed to switch majors during their first year except in special cases. Graduate students would not be able to change their program or level of study at all.
Students could also face risks if they travel while an extension application is pending, as it may be treated as an abandoned request. The proposal further states that past visa rulings will not be given deference, which could result in more scrutiny and denials even for repeat applicants.
Consequences on staying beyond visa period
Currently, unlawful presence for F visa holders begins only when immigration authorities find a violation. Under the new rule, unlawful presence would start immediately after the fixed admission period ends. This would increase the risk of overstaying, as even short delays could trigger re-entry bans of three or ten years.
The removal of deference to earlier approvals means that even students who had their extensions approved in the past could face more questions, additional paperwork, and possible denials in the future. This adds uncertainty to study plans and increases administrative challenges.
What this means
If implemented, the rule will bring more paperwork, higher costs, and possible delays for students and universities. Academic institutions are expected to raise concerns during the 30-day public comment period, as the changes could affect the US higher education sector’s ability to attract and retain international students.
Other changes to US visa rules in 2025
Starting October 1, 2025, most applicants for US non-immigrant visas, including student (F, J, M), work, and visitor visas will be required to pay an additional $250 “Visa Integrity Fee,” adding significantly to the cost of visa application.
This came on top of stricter screening rules, applicants for academic or exchange visas (F, M, J) must make their social media profiles public and disclose usernames from the past five years. Consular officers may review posts and activity as part of the vetting process.
Also, interview waivers will be restricted, from September 2, 2025, more applicants, including renewals, will be required to appear in person at consulates or embassies, increasing travel and scheduling challenges.
Currently, more than 330,000 Indians are enrolled in US universities, comprising about 30% of the overseas students in the country.
Currently, students can continue their stay as long as their program runs, with universities able to extend it by issuing an updated Form I-20. The new system would remove this flexibility and require fresh applications, biometric submissions, and USCIS review if programs last longer than the fixed period.
New 'fixed period of stay' limit for visas
For F-1 students, the maximum stay would be four years, including optional practical training, followed by a 30-day grace period. This is shorter than the current 60-day grace period. English language students would be allowed a maximum of 24 months, while public high school students would be limited to 12 months, as reported by Fragomen.
The rule also restricts changes in academic programs. Undergraduate F-1 students would not be allowed to switch majors during their first year except in special cases. Graduate students would not be able to change their program or level of study at all.
Students could also face risks if they travel while an extension application is pending, as it may be treated as an abandoned request. The proposal further states that past visa rulings will not be given deference, which could result in more scrutiny and denials even for repeat applicants.
Consequences on staying beyond visa period
Currently, unlawful presence for F visa holders begins only when immigration authorities find a violation. Under the new rule, unlawful presence would start immediately after the fixed admission period ends. This would increase the risk of overstaying, as even short delays could trigger re-entry bans of three or ten years.
The removal of deference to earlier approvals means that even students who had their extensions approved in the past could face more questions, additional paperwork, and possible denials in the future. This adds uncertainty to study plans and increases administrative challenges.
What this means
If implemented, the rule will bring more paperwork, higher costs, and possible delays for students and universities. Academic institutions are expected to raise concerns during the 30-day public comment period, as the changes could affect the US higher education sector’s ability to attract and retain international students.
Other changes to US visa rules in 2025
Starting October 1, 2025, most applicants for US non-immigrant visas, including student (F, J, M), work, and visitor visas will be required to pay an additional $250 “Visa Integrity Fee,” adding significantly to the cost of visa application.
This came on top of stricter screening rules, applicants for academic or exchange visas (F, M, J) must make their social media profiles public and disclose usernames from the past five years. Consular officers may review posts and activity as part of the vetting process.
Also, interview waivers will be restricted, from September 2, 2025, more applicants, including renewals, will be required to appear in person at consulates or embassies, increasing travel and scheduling challenges.
Currently, more than 330,000 Indians are enrolled in US universities, comprising about 30% of the overseas students in the country.
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