How US Visa Policy Changes Will Affect Students, Media Professionals, and Exchange Visitors

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The story so far: The US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) on Thursday (July 16, 2026) issued an order announcing amended immigration rules that blamed a so-called “Duration of Status” loophole that allegedly allowed “foreign students, exchange visitors and members of the media to remain in the US indefinitely without routine government oversight.” The order will hit the knowledge sector, which has so far made heavy use of US visas. The rules put an end to this privilege and, more importantly, grant doctoral students only a four-year residency.

The new decree introduces a “fixed admission period” for holders of F, J and I visas, which are nonimmigrants. It further specifically says that non-immigrant students who hold F visas and exchange visitors who hold J visas will be permitted to stay for the duration of their specific programs “not to exceed a maximum period of four years.” Those who need more time to complete their academic programs “must formally apply for an extension of stay (EOS)” directly through US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Federal authorities will review this application based on “biometric screening, background checks, and fraud screening.” In addition, the 60-day period given to F-1 visa holders (nonimmigrant students) to plan to leave, transfer schools, or change educational status after graduation has now been reduced to 30 days.

Published – 18 Jul 2026 21:47 IST