On July 17, 2026, DHS published a final rule establishing a fixed time period of admission and an extension of stay procedures for nonimmigrants in the F, J, and I classifications. DHS previously published an NPRM on Aug. 28, 2025, and the final rule adopts the proposal with amendments. Under this final rule, DHS replaces the "duration of status" (D/S) framework for F, J, and I nonimmigrants with a fixed admission period tied to the program end date or assignment, generally not to exceed four years, followed by a 30- or 60-day departure or extension period. Once that period ends, individuals must file for an Extension of Stay (EOS) directly with USCIS in order to remain in the United States legally. The final rule also transitions procedures for individuals who are currently in the United States under D/S, setting earlier expiration dates tied to program end dates or a four-year cap, plus a grace period. The final rule takes effect on Sept. 15, 2026.
Read more - https://www.dhs.gov/news/2026/07/16/trump-administration-issues-final-rule-end-foreign-student-visa-abuse
On July 30, 2026, the U.S. Department of State issued a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking in the Federal Register to expand and clarify grounds for terminating J-1 exchange visitor program participation, alter extension and reinstatement timelines and tighten compliance standards for sponsors. Sponsors must terminate an exchange visitor if false, incomplete, or fraudulent information/documentation was supplied during the application process or mid-program or for failure to keep mandatory health and accident insurance or engaging in unauthorized employment. Comments due by September 28, 2026.
