More headache for int'l students: US to roll out fixed-period F-1 visa from Sept
The US Department of Homeland Security is replacing the 'duration of status' visa regime for international students with a fixed four-year admission period starting September 15. Students currently in the US must ensure they are physically present by the deadline to qualify for transition protections.
Why it matters
This policy change significantly impacts the planning and legal status of thousands of international students, potentially complicating their academic timelines.
The final rule issued recently by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has replaced the long-standing ‘duration of status’ (D/S) regime (whereby students could stay in the US as long as they were studying) with fixed periods of admission of a maximum of four years. Post the expiry of this fixed period, visa extensions need to be sought. The final rule will come into effect from Sept 15. Currently international students, studying in the US are covered by the D/S regime. Immigration attorneys state that such students who are visiting India or are holiday in another country must return to the US before Sept 15, if they want to benefit from the transition provisions. Following publication of the final rules, DHS has issued a fact sheet and FAQs.
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