PROPOSED RULE TO END DURATION OF STATUS RELEASED BY DHS
The Department of Homeland Security has proposed ending the long-standing “duration of status” policy for F, J, and I visa holders, publishing the rule in the Federal Register on Aug. 28. Under the proposal, international students and exchange visitors would be admitted for the length of their academic program--up to four years--rather than for the open-ended duration of their studies. The rule would also shorten grace periods, limit English language study to 24 months, add new USCIS extension-of-stay requirements and restrict transfers or program changes. A 30-day public comment period runs through Sept. 29 for the rule itself, with a 60-day period ending Oct. 27 for related information collection changes.
