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ARTICLE · 27 JULY 2026

DHS Finalizes End Of “Duration Of Status” For F, J, And I Visa Categories

Fennemore Craig, P.C.
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On July 17, 2026, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) published a final rule replacing “duration of status,” commonly shown as “D/S,” with fixed periods of admission for F academic students, J exchange visitors, and I representatives of foreign information media.

GlobalImmigration
Alycia Moss
Alycia Moss
Catherine Renshaw
Catherine Renshaw

On July 17, 2026, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) published a final rule replacing “duration of status,” commonly shown as “D/S,” with fixed periods of admission for F academic students, J exchange visitors, and I representatives of foreign information media. The rule is scheduled to take effect on September 15, 2026.

What Changed

Under the current D/S system, many F, J, and I nonimmigrants receive a Form I-94 that shows “D/S” instead of a calendar expiration date. They may generally remain while properly pursuing the authorized program or activity and maintaining status. Additionally, they may remain in status in the United States as long as they are complying with the terms of their nonimmigrant visa, not subject to a fixed end date. Under this new rule, DHS will impose fixed end dates, rather than “D/S.”

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