08/10/2026
A major new DHS rule is changing how long F-1 international students, J-1 exchange visitors and certain foreign media representatives can remain in the United States.
Beginning September 15, 2026, many affected people will receive a specific expiration date on their I-94 instead of being admitted for “duration of status,” commonly shown as D/S.
In this video, I explain:
What D/S means
How the new fixed end date will work
The four-year maximum admission period
What happens to current students
How international travel may affect your I-94
When a Form I-539 extension may be needed
What the rule means for OPT and STEM OPT
New restrictions on school transfers and degree changes
The new 30-day departure period
The rule is scheduled to take effect on September 15, 2026. DHS says the effective date may change after congressional review, so applicants should continue checking official government updates.
Here is the link - https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2026/07/17/2026-14439/establishing-a-fixed-time-period-of-admission-and-an-extension-of-stay-procedure-for-nonimmigrant
This video provides general information only and is not personal legal advice.
Subscribe for clear and properly researched U.S. immigration updates explained in simple English.
new F-1 rule 2026, international student rule 2026, D/S ending, duration of status ending, F-1 expiration date, F-1 visa update, international students United States, Form I-539 student extension, F-1 extension of stay, OPT new rule, STEM OPT 2026, J-1 visa update, student visa immigration update, F-1 school transfer rules, September 15 2026 immigration rule