The United States Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has introduced a final regulation that will change how long certain nonimmigrant visas remain valid.
According to the new rule published on Thursday, visas under category F for international students, category J for cultural exchange visitors, and category I for media representatives will now have a fixed time limit.
What Is Changing?
Until now, holders of F, J, and I visas were generally allowed to stay in the US for the entire duration of their program, studies, or employment, as long as they maintained their status. This was known as "duration of status."
Under the new regulation, that system will be replaced with a specific, fixed period of authorized stay. The rule is set to take effect 60 days after its publication in the Federal Register.
The DHS stated that visa holders who wish to remain in the United States beyond the newly established period will need to apply for an extension with DHS or depart the country and apply for re-entry.
Who Is Affected?
The change affects three main groups:
1. F Visa Holders: International students studying at US colleges and universities.
2. J Visa Holders: Participants in cultural and educational exchange programs who are authorized to work in the US.
3. I Visa Holders: Foreign media representatives and journalists.
According to official data, the US issued visas to more than 500,000 exchange visitors and 37,300 media workers during the 2024 fiscal year, which began on October 1, 2023.
Reactions to the New Rule
The announcement has drawn mixed reactions. David J. Bier, director of immigration studies at the Cato Institute, questioned the legal basis for the restrictions on studies and program transfers.
He noted that international students who have spent years in the US may now have only 30 days to find an employer sponsor or face falling out of status, raising concerns about the practical impact on students.
Supporters of the measure argue that a fixed visa period will improve oversight and bring these categories in line with most other nonimmigrant visa types.
Applicants are advised to monitor the Federal Register and consult with their designated school officials or immigration attorneys to understand how the new timeline may affect their individual cases.