DHS Issues New Four-Year Limit on International Student Visas
Published July 27, 2026
By AACOM Government Relations
Federal Policy Higher Education
- On July 17, 2026, the Department of Homeland Security issued a final rule replacing “duration of status” for F and J visa holders with a fixed four-year period of authorized stay.
- Students and exchange visitors who need additional time must apply to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services for an extension and pay a fee. Current F and J visa holders will have four years from the rule’s effective date to seek an extension.
- The rule also restricts transfers between schools, shortens the post-program departure period from 60 to 30 days and subjects individuals who overstay to potential three- or ten-year reentry bans.
- The rule takes effect September 15, 2026.