DHS Notice Regarding F/J Duration of Status
Introduction
On Thursday, Aug. 28, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) posted a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) that would significantly change the F, J, and I nonimmigrant programs.
Included in the proposal is the elimination of Duration of Status (D/S), which currently allows F and J nonimmigrants to remain in the U.S. as long as they continue to comply with the terms of their status, such as enrolling full-time in the academic program listed on their I-20 or DS-2019. The proposal would replace D/S with a specific duration of admission equal to the program length indicated on their I-20/DS-2019 or four years, whichever is shorter. F and J nonimmigrants who need more time to complete their programs would have to apply for an extension of stay through U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
The NPRM includes other proposed changes, which can be read in full on the Federal Register website. NAFSA, the Association of International Educators, has posted a webpage summarizing the proposed changes and ways to submit a public comment. The deadline for submitting public comments is Sept. 29, 2025.
It is important to understand that this is currently a proposed rule change and that the rule is not final until the agency reviews public comments, submits a final rule to the U.S. Office of Management and Budget (OMB), and then publishes the final rule with a future effective date.
The Office of International Services will continue to monitor this situation closely and provide updates as needed. If you would like to discuss your case or get help, please send a message to ois@uic.edu or make an appointment with an OIS advisor. We look forward to working with you.
If you experience an immigration-related emergency during a time when the office is closed, please call the OIS Emergency After Hours Contact.
Please note that the information shared in this message is intended for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.