DHS Proposal Could Change F1 Visa Rules: What International Students Should Know

Planning to study in the US? Significant updates may be on the way for F1 visa holders. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has proposed a regulation that could replace the current “duration of status” system with a fixed four-year stay. If approved, this rule could reshape how student visas in the USA work and create new challenges for international students.

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Current F1 Visa Rules in the USA

Right now, students on an F1 visa in the USA are admitted for the “duration of status.” This means you can stay in the US for as long as it takes to finish your program, provided you follow all visa rules.

• An undergraduate student can remain for a four-year degree.

• A Ph.D. student can stay until their research is complete, even if it takes six or more years.

This flexible system allows international students to focus on academics without unnecessary visa stress.

Proposed DHS Changes to Student Visa USA

The DHS proposal would cap US student visas at four years, regardless of program length.

For many bachelor’s programs, four years may be enough. But for Ph.D. candidates, medical students, or those facing unexpected delays, this new rule could create serious challenges.

USCIS Extension Process for F1 Visa Students

If a student needs more time to complete studies, they would have to request an extension from USCIS (United States Citizenship and Immigration Services).

This process could involve:

• Submitting a detailed application

• Explaining reasons for delay

• Paying additional fees

• Waiting for approval without certainty

For students already balancing coursework and finances, this adds pressure and unpredictability.

Impact of Student Visa USA Changes on International Students

The new rule raises major concerns among students and universities:

• Loss of flexibility in long programs like Ph.D. or medical studies

• Administrative burden with more paperwork and interaction with the citizenship and immigration services

• Emotional and financial stress due to uncertainty about visa status

• Extra compliance work for universities assisting international students

Why DHS Wants to Change F1 Visa Rules

DHS has explained that a fixed timeline would strengthen oversight and reduce misuse of the F1 visa USA system. Officials believe ending open-ended stays will ensure accountability and help immigration enforcement.

J1 Visa Holders and Possible Impact

While this proposal directly affects F1 visa holders, international students on a J1 visa or J1 visas are also monitoring closely. Policy changes aimed at stricter monitoring could eventually impact other visa categories, like the study visa USA.

Universities and Advocacy Groups on Student Visa in the USA: Proposal

American universities and lobbies argue that stricter regulations on student visas in the USA could deter the best. They caution that overseas students could go to more welcoming countries like Canada, the United Kingdom or Australia.

What International Students Should Do Now

The rule is still at the proposal stage and has not been finalized. If you plan to apply for a student visa in the USA, here are the steps to consider:

• Follow updates from US Citizenship and Immigration Services

• Ask your university’s international office about academic planning under the new rule

• Prepare for the possibility of needing a USCIS extension if your program takes longer

Conclusion

The US F1 visa has been the entry point for international students in America to acquire higher learning. Although DHS focuses on accountability, critics argue that the proposed change could make the US less attractive to global talent.

For now, it remains a proposal. What becomes evident is that the future of student visa USA F1 or J1 will continue to be one of the core issues in the immigration debate of the United States.

We understand that the application process can be overwhelming, so we're here to support you. The study abroad experts at Hello Study Global are there for you every step of the way. From preparing for entrance exams to college applications, we will guide you to success.

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