The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has officially ended the long-standing “Duration of Status” (D/S) policy for F-1 student visas. Effective September 15, 2026, international students will no longer receive flexible, open-ended stays in the U.S.
Here is a breakdown of what the new fixed-stay policy means for Indian applicants and how to navigate the updated regulations.
What Has Changed?
For decades, F-1 visa holders were admitted under D/S status allowing them to stay lawfully as long as they remained enrolled full-time and maintained active SEVIS records. Under the new rule, DHS replaces D/S with a strict, time-bound system.
Fixed 4-Year Cap: New F-1 entrants receive a fixed admission period tied to their Form I-20 end date, capped at a maximum of 4 years.
30-Day Grace Period: The post-study departure window drops from 60 days to 30 days to leave the U.S., transfer schools, or transition onto OPT.
Mandatory Extension of Stay (EOS): If your program exceeds your I-94 expiry date (common for PhDs, dual degrees, or academic delays), you must file a formal EOS application with USCIS prior to expiration.
Strict Major & Transfer Limits: Graduate students are generally prohibited from changing majors or switching programs mid-degree without rare SEVP authorization.
Language Program Limits: English-language training on F-1 status is capped at an aggregate maximum of 24 months.
How Current F-1 Students Are Impacted
If you were admitted under D/S before September 15, 2026:
Your status remains valid until your current I-20 program end date or OPT completion date.
Absolute cap: All transition periods expire by September 15, 2030.
Travel Warning: Departing and re-entering the U.S. after September 15, 2026, revokes D/S and re-admits you under a fixed expiration date.
Key Action Plan for Indian Students
Align I-94 and I-20 Dates: Track your Form I-94 expiry rather than relying solely on university academic calendars.
File Extensions Early: Prepare EOS filings with USCIS at least 3 - 4 months before your authorized stay ends to avoid accruing unlawful presence.
Lock Majors at Application: Major shifts after admission are heavily restricted at the graduate level; choose your academic path accurately before applying.
Prepare OPT Early: With the post-graduation window reduced to 30 days, submit your OPT application early in your final semester.
For students planning their study-abroad strategy, choosing defined, high-ROI programs and maintaining strict visa compliance are now essential to avoiding immigration hurdles.
