New federal rule capping visa durations at four years to go into effect Sept. 15

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security announced a new federal rule, set to take effect on September 15, 2026, that will cap the duration of F-1 and J-1 visas for international students and scholars at a maximum of four years. Previously, students were granted legal status for the duration of their studies, provided they made academic progress. Those seeking to extend their degree or start a new program will now need to obtain a formal extension to their Form I-20. Students admitted before the rule's effective date and in the U.S. on September 15 can stay until their program ends, but no later than November 14, 2030.