Indian students studying in the United States may face new immigration rules from September 15, 2026. The US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is scheduled to set fixed stay periods for F-1 students and J-1 exchange visitors. Harvard University has advised its international community to review upcoming travel plans before the rule takes effect. Those who leave the US and return on or after September 15 may enter under the new system.

What Will Change Under the New Rule?

Currently, most F-1 and J-1 visa holders receive “D/S” on Form I-94. D/S means Duration of Status. It allows them to remain in the US while they continue an approved academic program, exchange activity or practical training and follow immigration requirements.

Under the new rule, Form I-94 will show the date until which a student can stay in the US. This date will usually match the program end date on Form I-20 or DS-2019. However, it will generally not exceed four years. This does not guarantee every international student a four-year stay. For example, a person enrolled in a two-year course may receive an admission period based on that course length. 

Why Is September 15 Important?

F-1 and J-1 visa holders who remain in the US on September 15 and maintain valid status may qualify for transition protection. They can generally stay until the end date on their current I-20 or DS-2019, subject to the limits in the rule. International travel may change how these protections apply. Anyone who leaves the country and returns on or after September 15 may receive a new I-94 with a fixed expiration date. The new admission system may then apply.

Before planning a trip, travelers should review their immigration documents and speak with their university’s international office. The adviser can explain how departure and re-entry may affect an individual case.

Students May Need USCIS Approval for More Time

Anyone who cannot complete a course before the I-94 expiration date will generally need to apply to US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) for an Extension of Stay. USCIS may approve more time for a compelling academic reason, a documented medical condition or circumstances beyond the applicant’s control. Applicants should submit their requests before their authorized stay expires.

The process may require additional forms, supporting documents and fees. Updating the program end date on Form I-20 may not extend a person’s immigration status by itself.

How Will the Rule Affect OPT and STEM OPT?

The changes may also affect Optional Practical Training and STEM OPT applicants. Some may have to submit both an employment authorization application and an Extension of Stay request. Special transition provisions may cover certain applicants who submit their OPT or STEM OPT forms on or before September 15. Anyone planning practical training should contact their designated university official and begin the process early.

The rule also reduces the grace period from 60 days to 30 days for many F-1 visa holders under the fixed-date system. Eligible individuals covered by the transition provisions may keep the existing 60-day period. The J-1 grace period generally remains 30 days.

What Should Indian Students Do?

Before leaving the US, Indian students should:

• Contact their university’s international office.
• Check their passport and visa validity.
• Review Form I-20 or DS-2019.
• Confirm that they have a valid travel signature.
• Download and check their latest Form I-94.
• Review any pending OPT, STEM OPT or extension application.

After returning, travelers should download the new I-94 and check the visa category and Admit Until Date. They should report any incorrect information immediately.

The rule faces a legal challenge, so its status may change. Follow updates from DHS, USCIS and the university before making an important travel decision.

The new F-1 and J-1 visa rules may change how Indian students plan their stay and travel between India and the USA. Careful document checks and guidance from the university can help prevent problems. After confirming your plans, explore Indian Eagle deals to find affordable international flights between the USA and India.

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