Post by Law Office of Thomas V. Allen

𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗘𝗻𝗱 𝗼𝗳 "𝗗𝘂𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗼𝗳 𝗦𝘁𝗮𝘁𝘂𝘀": 𝗟𝗮𝗻𝗱𝗺𝗮𝗿𝗸 𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗻𝗴𝗲𝘀 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗙 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗝 𝗩𝗶𝘀𝗮𝘀 A significant change is coming for F-1 students, J-1 exchange visitors, and I media representatives. DHS has announced a final rule that will end the long-standing “duration of status” framework and move these categories to fixed periods of admission documented on the Form I-94. The rule is scheduled to take effect on September 15, 2026. For F and J nonimmigrants, the practical impact is substantial: remaining in the United States beyond the I-94 admission date will generally require a timely extension-of-stay filing with USCIS. The rule also shortens the F-1 post-completion grace period from 60 days to 30 days and introduces additional limits affecting program changes, transfers, and certain educational progression. This is not simply a technical change in how status is recorded. It will make I-94 expiration dates, travel decisions, program extensions, OPT planning, and university compliance processes more consequential. Students, exchange visitors, employers, and schools should begin reviewing cases that may be affected—particularly where an individual may need additional time to complete a program, transfer institutions, pursue practical training, or travel internationally after the effective date. The transition rules will matter. Individuals already present in D/S status may be treated differently from those entering or changing status after the rule takes effect. Case-specific planning will be essential. Our firm will continue monitoring the Federal Register publication and implementation guidance as they become available.