US Ends Duration of Status for F-1 and J-1 Visa Holders Sept 2026

Effective September 15, 2026, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has implemented a significant shift in how F-1 students and J-1 exchange visitors are admitted into the United States. Historically, these visa holders were admitted for 'Duration of Status' (D/S), which allowed them to remain in the country for as long as they maintained their academic or exchange program requirements. This open-ended admission model has now been replaced by a system requiring fixed admission dates.

This change is designed to increase oversight and ensure that non-immigrant visa holders depart the United States promptly upon the completion of their authorized activities. The policy transition is particularly critical for those currently engaged in Optional Practical Training (OPT) or STEM OPT, as their legal status is now tied strictly to the end dates reflected on their Form I-20 or Form DS-2019. This represents a move toward greater administrative rigidity in the U.S. immigration system.

This policy affects all current and prospective F-1 students and J-1 exchange visitors, including those currently in the United States. It also impacts employers who hire individuals on F-1 OPT or STEM OPT, as they must now ensure their employees' work authorization remains valid under these new, fixed-date constraints.

Makutet analysis suggests that this policy change will likely lead to an increase in administrative requests for status extensions and a higher frequency of compliance audits for educational institutions. We anticipate that the removal of 'Duration of Status' will create a more rigid environment for international students, potentially influencing future enrollment decisions for those concerned about the complexity of maintaining legal status in the U.S.