US Implements New Four-Year Cap for F-1 and J-1 Visa Holders
The US Department of Homeland Security has ended 'Duration of Status' for F-1 and J-1 visa holders, introducing a new four-year maximum stay policy.
Traveller Impact
Students and exchange visitors must now track their specific program end dates closely to avoid accidental overstays under the new fixed-period admission rules.
Why This Matters
As of September 15, 2026, the United States Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has officially transitioned away from the long-standing 'Duration of Status' (D/S) policy for F-1 student and J-1 exchange visitor visa holders. Historically, these individuals were admitted for the entire duration of their academic or exchange programs, providing flexibility for extensions. The new regulation replaces this with a fixed-period admission model, typically capped at four years for most participants.
This policy shift is designed to enhance oversight of non-immigrant populations and ensure that visa holders remain in compliance with their specific program requirements. By moving to a fixed-date system, the government aims to reduce administrative ambiguity regarding when a visitor's legal presence in the country expires. This change represents a significant departure from previous immigration norms and requires a more rigorous approach to maintaining legal status for international students and researchers.
Who Is Affected
The new rules primarily impact international students on F-1 visas, including those participating in Optional Practical Training (OPT) and STEM OPT programs. Additionally, J-1 exchange visitors, including scholars, researchers, and interns, are subject to these new fixed-period admission requirements.
What Travellers Should Do
Review your Form I-20 or Form DS-2019 to identify your specific program end date, as this now dictates your legal stay duration.
Consult with your university's Designated School Official (DSO) or program sponsor to understand how the four-year cap applies to your specific academic trajectory.
Apply for an extension of stay well in advance if your program duration exceeds the initial four-year admission period granted at the port of entry.
Monitor your I-94 arrival record online to ensure the expiration date matches your expected program completion date.
Makutet Insight
Makutet expects this transition to create significant administrative friction for long-term doctoral candidates and multi-year research fellows who may now face more frequent renewal cycles. We anticipate that the increased burden on university international offices will lead to longer processing times for status extensions throughout the 2026-2027 academic year.
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