What’s Happening

As recently discussed in our client alert, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has now finalized a rule replacing “duration of status,” or “D/S,” admissions for F-1 students and J-1 exchange visitors with fixed periods of admission.

F-1 and J-1 nonimmigrants will generally be admitted through the lesser of their program end date on their Form I-20 or Form DS-2019, or four years. In addition, following the effective date of the rule, F-1 students' post completion departure period or “grace period” will be reduced from 60 days to 30 days. Where applicable, the admission period may also include post-completion practical training. Individuals who need additional time will generally need to file an extension of stay with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) or depart the United States and seek readmission.