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Latest News21 Jul 20264 min readBy Sarkari247 Editorial Desk

US F-1 Visa Rules: Fixed Stay Replaces Duration of Status

The US has changed its F-1 visa rules, replacing 'Duration of Status' with a fixed stay period. Indian students must now apply for extensions if needed.

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US F-1 Visa Rules: Fixed Stay Replaces Duration of Status

The United States has introduced significant changes to its F-1 visa rules, affecting Indian students studying in the country. The 'Duration of Status' rule has been replaced with a fixed stay period, allowing students to stay for up to four years, along with additional 30 days each upon arrival and departure.

US F-1 Visa Recruitment: Overview

Authority / BoardUS Department of Homeland Security (DHS)
Vacancy/Post NameF-1 Visa Students
Advt No. / CycleFinal Rule, July 17, 2026
Selection ProcessApplication for Extension of Stay Procedure (EOS)
Official Websiteuscis.gov

Important Dates & Schedule

EventDate
Final Rule PublicationJuly 17, 2026
Rule Effective DateSeptember 15, 2026

Eligibility

Criteria & Vacancy Details

  • Indian students studying in the US under the F-1 visa are eligible.
  • Students must apply for an extension of stay procedure (EOS) if they need extra time to finish their studies.
  • The fixed time of study, which is a maximum of four years, including an additional 30 days after arrival and before departure, will be listed on the student’s Form I-20.

How to Apply Online

  1. Students must apply for an extension of stay procedure (EOS) with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) if they need extra time to finish their studies.
  2. Students can apply for additional time, other courses, and seek lawful status to remain in the US during the 30-day period after completion of the course.

Exam Pattern & Syllabus

The changes introduced by the Final Rule include

  • Allowing students to stay for 30 days before their departure after the completion of the course.
  • Students in their first year of study and enrolled in a course below the graduate level cannot apply for changing their educational levels and change of their major, unless SEVP authorizes an exception.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the new F-1 visa rule?

A: The US has replaced the 'Duration of Status' rule with a fixed stay period, allowing students to stay for up to four years, along with additional 30 days each upon arrival and departure.

Q: How do Indian students apply for an extension of stay?

A: Indian students must apply for an extension of stay procedure (EOS) with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) if they need extra time to finish their studies.

Q: What are the changes introduced by the Final Rule?

A: The Final Rule introduces several changes, including allowing students to stay for 30 days before their departure after the completion of the course, and restricting students from changing their educational levels and majors.

Tags

#US F-1 Visa#F-1 Visa Rules#Indian Students#Study in US#Extension of Stay#USCIS#SEVP

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