US to cap F, J, and I visa stay periods

Highlights: US to Limit Stay for F, J, I Visa Holders

• The US Department of Homeland Security has proposed replacing the current “duration of status” system with fixed visa stay limits for F, J, and I visa categories.
• F-1 and J-1 visa holders may be limited to a stay of up to four years, including Optional Practical Training (OPT) and exchange programs.
• Unlawful presence would begin immediately after the fixed stay expires—risking 3- or 10-year bans for overstaying.
• Students could face restrictions on changing majors or academic programs, especially in the first year.
• USCIS officers may no longer defer to previous visa approvals, leading to stricter reviews for extensions and renewals.

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US May Cap Student and Media Visas at Four Years — What Indian Applicants Must Know

If you're planning to study or work in the U.S. on an F, I or J visa, here’s how the proposed changes could affect you.
 

• Shorter Stay Periods: The current “duration of status” model may be replaced with fixed stays—up to 4 years for most students and exchange visitors, and just 240 days for foreign media professionals.
• Tighter Academic Flexibility: Restrictions may prevent undergraduate students from changing majors in the first year and stop graduate students from changing their level of education.
• Higher Risk of Overstay Penalties: Overstaying a fixed visa period may trigger immediate accrual of unlawful presence, leading to re-entry bans of 3 or 10 years.
• No Deference to Prior Approvals: USCIS officers may no longer consider earlier approvals when reviewing extension applications—potentially resulting in more rejections or longer processing times.
• More Administrative Burden: Applicants may need to plan for additional paperwork, costs, and careful travel decisions if extensions are required during their stay.

*Want to apply for a US student visa? Let Y-Axis guide you with the process.
 

Planning to Study in the US? Here’s What You Should Keep in Mind

As the US rethinks visa rules for international students and professionals, here are a few important takeaways Indian applicants should consider:

• Stay updated on policy changes: The new rule is still under review. Keep an eye on announcements from the US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and your university.
• Plan your academic path carefully: Under the proposed rules, changing your course or program may be restricted—especially within the first year or at the graduate level.
• Understand your visa limits: Be aware of the fixed visa duration and renewal requirements. Extensions may not be automatic or guaranteed.
• Avoid overstays at all costs: Overstaying your visa can now immediately trigger penalties and long-term bans from re-entry.
• Seek expert guidance early: Whether it’s understanding your visa options or preparing your documents, consult reliable advisors to stay ahead of changes.
   

*Are you looking for step-by-step assistance with US immigration? Contact Y-Axis, the world’s No.1 overseas immigration consultancy, for end-to-end assistance!

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