Study Abroad: US F1, J1 visas may soon face fixed term limits as proposal clears White House review

US Student Visa: International students may soon face significant changes to their US visa arrangements as the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) moves forward with a proposal to impose fixed time limits on student visas. The proposal, which cleared a crucial White House review on August 7, 2025, would fundamentally alter how F1 and J1 student visa holders maintain their legal status in the United States. It will be published soon.

This is a critical milestone, clearing the way for DHS to publish the draft in the Federal Register (the daily journal of the government of USA) and officially open it for public comment, a document by NAFSA, an association of international educators, stated.

F1 visa, J1 exchange visitors: Current vs proposed system

Under the current framework, F1 student visa holders , J1 exchange visitors and I1 foreign media representatives benefit from “duration of status” admission. This arrangement allows them to stay legally in the US throughout their programme without fixed expiration dates, provided they maintain compliance with their visa conditions.

The proposed rule will replace this open-ended system with pre-determined visa periods, likely ranging from two-to-four years. Students’ whose academic programmes extend beyond their visa expirations will need to file for extensions through United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

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DHS is now expected to publish the draft regulation in the Federal Register, officially launching a public comment period lasting 30-60 days. This period will provide universities, students, advocacy groups, and other stakeholders an opportunity to submit feedback and raise concerns.

DHS will then review the responses and issue a final rule.

US Study Visa: Effect on students

The changes in the US visa framework could significantly affect students enrolled in long-term programmes like PhDs, requiring them to adapt to new timelines, paperwork, and potential delays.

• Students may face multiple renewal applications throughout their studies, each subject to potential delays and additional fees.
• The fixed-term system could disrupt long-term research projects, particularly affecting STEM programmes that often require extended study periods.
• Universities and programme sponsors will likely need to overhaul their policies and support systems to help students navigate the new renewal requirement and deadlines.
• The added complexity and uncertainty could discourage international students from choosing US universities