US Student Visa Rules Change Sept 15

International students in the US will face new rules starting September 15, 2026. The new regulations will introduce a fixed admission period for F-1 students, based on the length of their program. This admission period will not exceed four years for most students.

The new rules also reduce the departure period after program completion from sixty days to thirty days. This means that students will have to leave the US within thirty days of completing their program, unless they apply for an extension of stay.

Students who need more time in the US after completing their program will have to apply for an extension of stay with the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). This application process will allow students to stay in the US for a longer period, but they will have to meet certain eligibility criteria.

The new rules are expected to impact a large number of international students in the US, particularly those who are pursuing undergraduate or graduate degrees. Many students use the sixty-day departure period to travel, attend interviews, or complete practical training.

The reduction in the departure period may cause inconvenience to some students, who may have to rush to complete their plans before leaving the US. However, the new rules are intended to streamline the immigration process and reduce the risk of visa overstays.

International students in the US should be aware of the new rules and plan accordingly. They should check their admission period and ensure that they comply with the new regulations. Students who need more time in the US should apply for an extension of stay well in advance to avoid any last-minute rush.

The new rules are part of a broader effort by the US government to reform the immigration system and ensure that it is fair, efficient, and secure. The rules are expected to have a significant impact on international students in the US, and students should be prepared to adapt to the changes.

In general, the new rules are a significant development for international students in the US, and they will require careful planning and attention to detail to ensure compliance. The changes may cause some inconvenience, but they are intended to improve the immigration process and reduce the risk of visa overstays.