Key Takeaways
• DHS proposes ending flexible D/S visa system on July 1, 2025, introducing fixed stay periods for F, J, I visas.
• Fixed visa stays capped at four years, with shorter durations and stricter checks for certain countries.
• Proposal includes increased security vetting, higher fees, potential OPT limits, affecting thousands of international students.
A major change to the way the United States 🇺🇸 handles student visas is moving closer to reality. As of July 1, 2025, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has submitted a proposed rule to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) that could end the long-standing “duration of status” (D/S) system for international students, exchange visitors, and foreign media representatives. Instead, the DHS wants to introduce fixed periods of authorized stay for F, J, and I visa holders. This proposal is under active review and, if approved, would affect hundreds of thousands of students and educational institutions across the country.
What Is Changing and Why Now?
The DHS proposal aims to replace the flexible D/S system with a more rigid structure. Under the current rules, international students on F-1 visas are allowed to stay in the United States 🇺🇸 for as long as they maintain their student status and follow the rules of their academic program. This means students can finish their studies, participate in practical training, and even change programs without having to reapply for a new visa or extension, as long as they remain in good standing.
The new rule, however, would set a fixed period of stay for each student visa holder. This period would likely match the length of the academic program but would be capped—often at four years for most students, and possibly just two years for students from certain countries. Once this period ends, students would need to apply for an extension or a new visa to continue their studies or training.
The DHS says this change is needed to improve national security and prevent visa overstays. Officials argue that fixed periods make it easier to track who is in the country and for how long, reducing the risk of people staying illegally after their studies end.
How the Review Process Works
The proposed rule is currently with the Office of Management and Budget, which is one of the last steps before a new regulation can become official. The OMB reviews the rule for its impact, costs, and legal issues. After this review, the rule is expected to be published in the Federal Register, the official government record for new rules and regulations.
Normally, there is a 30 to 60-day public comment period after publication. During this time, anyone can submit feedback or concerns. However, some experts warn that the DHS might issue the rule as an interim final rule, which would make it effective immediately without public comment. This possibility has raised concerns among students, universities, and immigration advocates who want a chance to voice their opinions before such a big change takes effect.
Background: The Duration of Status (D/S) System
For decades, the D/S system has given international students flexibility and peace of mind. As long as they are enrolled in school, following the rules, and making progress toward their degree, they can stay in the United States 🇺🇸 without worrying about their visa expiring. This system has made the United States 🇺🇸 a top choice for students from around the world.
The new proposal would end this flexibility. Instead, students would be admitted for a set period—usually matching their program length but with strict limits. If they need more time, they must apply for an extension, which could involve extra paperwork, higher fees, and more uncertainty.
This idea is not new. The Trump administration tried to introduce similar changes in 2020, aiming to limit student visa durations and make it harder for students from certain countries, especially those studying science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM), to extend their stay. That earlier proposal faced strong opposition and was eventually dropped, but the current DHS proposal brings many of the same ideas back.
Key Details of the Proposed Rule
Fixed Periods of Stay
- Visa Validity: Students would receive visas valid only for a specific period, likely tied to their program but capped at four years for most and two years for some.
- Extensions: After the fixed period, students must apply for an extension or a new visa to continue their studies or practical training.
- Country-Specific Caps: Students from countries on the U.S. State Department’s “sensitive countries” list or under sanctions could face shorter visa periods and more scrutiny.
Increased Vetting and Security Checks
- Social Media Screening: The DHS and U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) have started reviewing social media activity as part of the visa application process for F and J visa holders.
- Background Checks: Enhanced background checks are now standard for these visa categories, part of broader national security efforts.
Impact on Work Training (OPT)
- Optional Practical Training (OPT): The proposal may limit or even eliminate the STEM OPT extension, which currently allows students in science and technology fields to work in the United States 🇺🇸 for up to three years after graduation.
- Shorter OPT Periods: Students may have less time to gain work experience, making the United States 🇺🇸 less attractive compared to other countries.
Higher Fees and More Paperwork
- Increased Costs: Visa application and extension fees are expected to rise, adding financial pressure on students and schools.
- Administrative Burden: More frequent renewals mean more paperwork and time spent dealing with immigration processes.
Who Is Affected?
International Students
Students from around the world who come to the United States 🇺🇸 for education will face more uncertainty and possibly higher costs. Those from countries on the “sensitive countries” list may have even shorter visa periods and face tougher background checks. Many students worry about the risk of abrupt visa terminations, especially after recent problems with SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System) record terminations and visa revocations.
Educational Institutions
Universities and colleges rely on international students for diversity, global connections, and financial stability. Many schools are concerned that fixed periods of stay will discourage students from choosing the United States 🇺🇸, especially when other countries offer more flexible options. Schools may also need to invest more in support services to help students handle the new rules.
Employers and the U.S. Economy
Many international students go on to work in the United States 🇺🇸 after graduation, especially in high-demand STEM fields. Limiting OPT and making it harder to stay could hurt the country’s ability to attract and keep global talent, which is important for innovation and economic growth.
Government and National Security
The DHS and USCIS argue that these changes are needed to prevent visa overstays and protect national security. By setting clear limits and increasing vetting, they hope to reduce the risk of people abusing the student visa system.
Recent Developments and Policy Shifts
The push for stricter student visa rules is part of a larger trend. In April 2025, the DHS announced that USCIS would start considering social media activity in visa applications for F and J visa holders. In June 2025, the Department of State issued new guidance for expanded screening and vetting, including checks on applicants’ online presence.
Also in June 2025, a presidential proclamation introduced entry restrictions on nationals from 19 countries, making it even harder for some students to get visas. These changes show a clear move toward tighter controls and more scrutiny for international students.
What Does This Mean for Students and Schools?
For Students
- Shorter Visa Validity: Be ready for visas that last only a few years, not the full length of your studies.
- More Renewals: You may need to apply for extensions or new visas more often, which means more paperwork and higher costs.
- Extra Documentation: Keep careful records of your academic progress and compliance with visa rules.
- Increased Vetting: Expect more questions about your background, social media, and travel history.
- OPT Uncertainty: If you plan to work after graduation, pay close attention to any changes in OPT rules.
For Educational Institutions
- Support Services: Schools may need to offer more help with visa renewals, documentation, and legal advice.
- Enrollment Impact: Stricter rules could lead to fewer international students, affecting campus diversity and finances.
- Advocacy: Many schools are working with government officials and advocacy groups to push for more flexible policies.
For Legal and Immigration Advisors
- Stay Updated: The rules are changing quickly, so it’s important to follow updates from the DHS, USCIS, and Department of State.
- Prepare Clients: Help students and schools understand the new requirements and plan for possible challenges.
- Monitor Legal Challenges: There may be lawsuits or advocacy efforts that could delay or change the final rule.
Official Resources and Where to Get Help
- DHS and USCIS: For the latest updates on rulemaking and visa policy changes, visit the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) official website.
- U.S. Department of State: For visa application procedures and announcements on entry restrictions, check the State Department’s visa page.
- University International Student Offices: Most schools have offices dedicated to helping international students with visa issues and compliance.
- OMB: Updates on the rule’s status can be found on the Office of Management and Budget’s website.
If you need to apply for an extension or a new visa, you will likely use Form I-539, Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status. Always use the latest version from the official USCIS website.
What Happens Next?
The rule is expected to be published in the Federal Register soon after the OMB review, likely in mid to late 2025. There may be a public comment period, but if the DHS issues the rule as an interim final rule, it could take effect immediately. Legal challenges and advocacy efforts could delay or change the final version.
The Biden administration has taken a cautious approach, trying to balance national security with the need to keep the United States 🇺🇸 attractive to international students. Many stakeholders, including universities and business leaders, are pushing for policies that support global talent and keep the country competitive.
Broader Implications and Stakeholder Reactions
Educational Institutions: Schools are worried that fixed periods of stay will make the United States 🇺🇸 less appealing to international students. They point out that other countries, like Canada 🇨🇦 and Australia 🇦🇺, offer more flexible student visa options. Losing international students could hurt campus diversity, research, and finances.
International Students: Many students feel anxious about the possibility of sudden visa terminations and more complicated renewal processes. The risk of losing their status or being forced to leave the country before finishing their studies is a real concern.
Immigration Experts: Analysts warn that the new rule could disrupt academic progress and make it harder for the United States 🇺🇸 to attract top talent. They also worry about the lack of public input if the rule is issued as an interim final rule.
Government Officials: The DHS and USCIS say the changes are needed for national security and to prevent visa abuse. They argue that fixed periods of stay will make it easier to track and manage who is in the country.
As reported by VisaVerge.com, the debate over fixed periods of stay for student visas highlights the tension between security and openness in U.S. immigration policy. The outcome will shape the future for thousands of students and the schools that depend on them.
What Should Students and Schools Do Now?
- Stay Informed: Follow updates from official sources like the DHS, USCIS, and your school’s international office.
- Prepare for Change: Gather all necessary documents, keep your records up to date, and be ready for possible new requirements.
- Seek Help: If you have questions or concerns, talk to your school’s international student office or a qualified immigration advisor.
- Watch for Deadlines: If the rule is finalized, pay close attention to new deadlines for visa renewals or extensions.
Conclusion
The DHS proposal to limit student visas to fixed periods of stay is under final review and could become law soon. This change would end the flexible “duration of status” system, introduce more frequent renewals, increase vetting, and possibly restrict work training options. The impact will be felt by international students, educational institutions, and the broader U.S. immigration system. Staying informed and prepared is the best way to handle these upcoming changes. For the latest updates and official information, visit the USCIS website.
Learn Today
Duration of Status (D/S) → A flexible rule allowing students to stay as long as they maintain academic status in the U.S.
F-1 Visa → A nonimmigrant visa for international students pursuing full-time academic studies in the United States.
Optional Practical Training (OPT) → A program allowing F-1 students temporary work authorization in their field after graduation.
Office of Management and Budget (OMB) → A U.S. government agency reviewing federal regulations for impact, costs, and legal compliance.
Interim Final Rule → A regulation that becomes effective immediately, potentially without a public comment period.
This Article in a Nutshell
The DHS plans to replace the flexible student visa D/S rule with fixed stay periods by mid-2025. This change seeks national security improvements but risks more renewals, costs, and limits on post-study work for international students in the U.S.
— By VisaVerge.com
