US ends "duration of status" for student, journalist visas

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security has officially ended the "duration of status" framework for foreign students, exchange visitors, and media representatives. This change means these individuals will no longer be allowed to stay in the U.S. indefinitely without regular government checks. Instead, they will receive fixed admission periods.

Under the new regulation, F-1 students and J-1 exchange visitors will be admitted for the length of their program, with a maximum of four years. Those needing more time must apply for an Extension of Stay. The rule also imposes new restrictions, such as limiting F-1 students in English programs to 24 months and reducing the grace period after studies from 60 to 30 days. Undergraduate students generally cannot change majors or transfer in their first year, and graduate students face strict limits on changing educational objectives. Students who have completed a degree are prohibited from starting a new program at the same or a lower level.

Media representatives on I visas will now be admitted for the time needed to complete their assignment, up to 240 days, requiring an extension for longer stays. Chinese citizens holding I visas face a stricter 90-day limit. The definition of a foreign media organization is also tightened, requiring regular journalistic output and a home office abroad. Extensions will no longer be handled by school officials or program sponsors; applicants must file Form I-539 with USCIS, potentially requiring biometrics and interviews. Work authorization extensions may be granted for up to 240 days while applications are pending. The regulations take effect 60 days after publication, with current "duration of status" holders generally allowed to remain until their program ends, up to four years.

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officially eliminate the 'duration of status' loophole that allowed foreign students, exchange visitors, and media representatives to remain in the United States indefinitely without routine government oversight