Update on the DHS Proposed Rule to Replace Duration of Status
Once published, new rules typically take effect within 60 days.
On August 29, 2025, the Office of International Services notified the UIC community that the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) had posted a notice of proposed rulemaking (“Establishing a Fixed Time Period of Admission and an Extension of Stay Procedure for Nonimmigrant Academic Students, Exchange Visitors, and Representatives of Foreign Information Media”) that would significantly change the F, J, and I nonimmigrant programs, most notably by eliminating “Duration of Status (D/S)” and replacing it with fixed-date admission to the U.S.
On May 5, 2026, DHS submitted the final rule to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB). This action indicates that the final rule could be published very soon. Once published, a final rule typically goes into effect within 60 days.
The Office of International Services is committed to fostering a supportive environment for international students, scholars, and employees at UIC. We will continue to monitor this situation very closely and will notify the entire UIC international community and our academic colleagues as soon as the final rule is published.
Once the final rule is analyzed, OIS will provide detailed guidance on next steps and host virtual question-and-answer sessions for our community. In addition, a page on the OIS website will be established to share information and answers to frequently asked questions. Until then, students, scholars, and alumni can connect with an OIS advisor via email or by scheduling an appointment. Please note, however, that actionable guidance cannot be provided until the final rule is published.