New Fixed Admission Period for F, J, I Visa Holders Starts Sept 15, 2026

TITLE: New Fixed Admission Period for F, J, I Visa Holders Starts Sept 15, 2026

WHAT HAPPENED: Starting September 15, 2026, F, J, and I nonimmigrants will no longer be admitted for “duration of status.” Instead, they will be admitted for a fixed (limited) time and must use a new extension-of-stay procedure to stay longer.

WHO IT AFFECTS: People in F (academic student), J (exchange visitor), or I (foreign information media representative) nonimmigrant classifications.

WHAT TO DO NOW: No immediate action is required. Between now and September 15, 2026, watch for official details about the exact admission period and the extension process. Talk to your school’s international student office or an immigration attorney to understand how this change may affect your personal plans.

SOURCE: https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2026/07/17/2026-14439/establishing-a-fixed-time-period-of-admission-and-an-extension-of-stay-procedure-for-nonimmigrant

DISCLAIMER: General info from Homeland Security Department, not legal advice — check with an immigration attorney. English is authoritative.