DHS Proposes Fixed Admission Periods for F, J, and I Visas

On August 28, 2025, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) published a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) in the Federal Register (90 FR 42070). This proposal would significantly change how admission periods are granted for foreign nationals in F (academic students), J (exchange visitors), and I (representatives of foreign media) classifications.

Current Rule: “Duration of Status”

Under the existing framework, many F, J, and I visa holders are admitted for “duration of status” (D/S). This means they may remain in the United States as long as they continue to comply with the terms of their visa (for example, maintaining student enrollment or media activity) without the need for repeated extensions.

Proposed Rule: Fixed Admission Period

The DHS proposal would eliminate the “duration of status” admission. Instead, F, J, and I visa holders would be admitted for a specific, fixed period of stay, determined at the time of entry.

• DHS cites the need for greater oversight and consistency in monitoring compliance.
• The proposal would require applications for extensions if a foreign national’s program or assignment continues beyond the initially granted period.
• According to DHS, this change is intended to enhance national security and reduce overstays.

Comment Period

Public comments on the proposed rule are due by September 28, 2025. DHS encourages stakeholders, including students, universities, exchange programs, and media organizations, to provide feedback.

Potential Implications

If finalized, the rule may affect:

• International students (F-1, F-2): Those in degree programs could face more frequent extension filings, adding costs and administrative steps.
• Exchange visitors (J-1, J-2): Program durations would be subject to more rigid oversight.
• Foreign media (I visa holders): Assignments could be limited to defined periods, requiring renewals.

For foreign nationals and sponsoring institutions, the proposal introduces greater predictability for DHS but also increases filing burdens and potential uncertainty for visa holders whose studies or assignments extend beyond the initial admission.

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