InternationalTuesday, 21 July 2026·The Hindu - International
U.S. fixed-period F, J, I visa rule: 4-year cap, 30-day departure window and EOS filing
The U.S. DHS order of July 16, 2026 replaces duration-of-status stay with fixed admission periods for F, J and I visas.
Key highlights
Direct fact
In July 2026, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) issued amended immigration rules that replace the “Duration of Status” system for F, J and I non-immigrant visas with a fixed period of admission, capping F-visa students and J-visa exchange visitors at 4 years.
Key specifics
- F, J and I category visas are non-immigrant visas under the July 16, 2026 DHS order.
- F-visa students and J-visa exchange visitors can stay only for the length of their programme, up to 4 years.
- Those needing more time must apply for an Extension of Stay (EOS) through USCIS.
- USCIS will assess EOS requests using biometric vetting, background checks and fraud screenings.
- The post-graduation departure planning period for F-1 visa holders has been cut from 60 days to 30 days.
Exam lens
Question type: international policy match-the-following, visa category and stay-limit facts, U.S. immigration administration. TNPSC one-liner: remember the 2026 DHS order, F/J/I visas, 4-year cap, USCIS EOS, and 60-day to 30-day change.