What is the new policy for F-1 students?

The main "new" policy for F-1 students is a major proposed rule from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to end "Duration of Status" (D/S), replacing it with fixed admissions, usually up to four years, requiring extensions for longer programs, and potentially limiting major changes and reducing OPT grace periods. While currently proposed, this could significantly change F-1 rules by requiring more proactive extensions, reducing flexibility, and adding bureaucracy, with a comment period ending in late 2025 and the rule taking effect if finalized.

What are the new rules for an F1 visa?

The new DHS plan eliminates the duration of status, stipulating that F and J visa holders be approved for no more than four years. Students unable to complete their degree in that time period would have to apply for an extension of stay with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Service.

What are the new rules for international students in the USA in 2025?

New 2025 rules for U.S. international students include stricter vetting, mandatory interviews in home countries, and proposed changes ending "duration of status" (D/S) for fixed admission periods with shorter grace periods, potentially impacting transfers and employment (OPT), requiring more diligent adherence to program end dates and extensions to avoid unlawful presence. Key changes involve heightened national security screening, new visa processing locations, and a significant shift from flexible to fixed-term student visas, creating tighter deadlines. 

What are the new F1 visa rules for 2026?

F-1 Visa Requirements in 2026

Institution certification — The college or the university where you plan to study needs to be approved by SEVP Immigration & Customs Enforcement. Full-time enrollment — You must be enrolled as a full-time student at the institution while your academic term is in session.

How long can a student stay in the US on an F1 visa?

An F-1 visa allows entry to the U.S. for study, typically valid for up to five years, but your actual authorized stay is determined by the "Program End Date" on your Form I-20, granting a 60-day grace period to leave after studies, provided you maintain full-time enrollment and other F-1 status rules; the visa itself doesn't need to be valid for your whole stay, only the I-20 and your passport. 

Trump's New Rule Change for US Student Visas (F1, J1, M1)

Will F-1 students get a green card?

If you are an international student who lives and studies in the United States, and you hold an F1 Visa, you may be able to apply for a Green Card and become a lawful permanent resident if you wish to remain in the US after your studies.

What is the 5 month rule for F-1 students?

The F-1 5-Month Rule means your SEVIS record terminates if you're outside the U.S. or away from classes for over five months without approved authorization (like study abroad), requiring a new I-20 and SEVIS fee to return; however, authorized study abroad, research, or reduced course loads for medical/academic reasons can be exceptions, so always check with your Designated School Official (DSO) for specific guidance to maintain your F-1 status and avoid record termination. 

Did Trump cancel student visas?

The Department of State has revoked 8,000 student visas since the start of President Donald Trump's second term, the department shared on the social media site X on Monday, as part of the president's massive deportation campaign.

How much bank balance is required for an USA F1 visa?

For instance, if your I-20 lists annual costs of $25,000, you will need to demonstrate $50,000 for a two-year program. Some programs may extend to 36 months. To be eligible for an F1 visa, your bank account should ideally hold at least 1.5 times the amount specified on your I-20 or a minimum of $10,000.

Which countries are banned from F1 visa?

The 'full' travel ban continues to restrict the entry of nationals from: Afghanistan, Burma/Myanmar, Chad, Republic of the Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, and Yemen. It now extends to Burkina Faso, Laos, Mali, Niger, Sierra Leone, South Sudan, and Syria.

Is the USA giving PR to international students?

A US Green Card offers international students far more than residency – it provides long-term educational, financial, and professional security. For families planning education in the United States beyond 2026, permanent residency can be a strategic investment in a student's future.

Can a F-1 student travel outside of the US during semester?

Travel Advisory for F-1 Students:

Traveling abroad during the semester is NOT recommended. There is a risk to your visa status and re-entry if you travel during a semester. Per SEVIS guidelines, F-1 students are expected to participate in their classes and CPT from within the United States.

Are F1 visa slots open for fall 2025?

The US has officially resumed F1 visa appointments, and yes, slots are now LIVE across India! 🎓✈️ If you plan to study in the USA in Fall 2025 or Spring 2026, this is your moment to move.

How many hours can you work on an F1 visa?

International students enrolled full time and in valid F-1 status can generally work on-campus for up to 20 hours per week during when classes are in session, and up to 40 hours per week when classes are not.

What is the Trump administration visa proposal for international students?

Under President Trump's proposed rule, the federal government would set the authorized admission and extension periods for foreign students and exchange visitors up to the duration of the program they are participating in, not to exceed a 4-year period.

Are F-1 students resident aliens after 5 years?

Generally, foreign students in F-1, J-1, or M-1 nonimmigrant status who have been in the United States more than 5 calendar years become resident aliens for U.S. tax purpose if they meet the “Substantial Presence Test” and are liable for Social Security and Medicare taxes.

What is the income limit for F1 visa?

Undergraduate Students: $78,200. Graduate Students: $60,869. MTM Program: $92,047. Students with Dependents: Married students add $4,000 if accompanied by a spouse.

What is proof of income for international students?

Evidence of income

This can include evidence of current employment or self-employment, recent pay statements, a letter from the employer on business letterhead – showing dates of employment, wages paid, and type of work performed – or other financial data.

How long can someone stay in the U.S. on a student visa?

Foreign students in the United States with F visas must depart the United States within 60 days after the program end date listed on Form I-20, including any authorized practical training.

Who has to pay $100,000 for an H-1B visa?

Practically speaking, this fee only applies to employers who use an H-1B visa petition to bring a foreign national to the United States. Current employers of H-1 workers who wish to continue to employ this worker need not worry about this fee, and can instead file an extension of status petition.

Which visa gives 10 years in the USA?

Both B-1 and B-2 US visitor visa are valid for up to 10 years. However, an individual will be permitted to stay in the country for a short period of time, a maximum of 6 months.

How long can you stay after graduation on a F1 visa?

Most international students in the United States hold an F-1 visa. After graduating, F-1 visa holders usually get a 60-day grace period.

What is a F3 and F4 visa?

F3 and F4 visas are U.S. Family Preference Immigrant Visas: F3 is for married sons or daughters of U.S. citizens, allowing them, their spouses, and minor children to immigrate, while F4 is for siblings (brothers or sisters) of U.S. citizens who are 21 or older, also allowing their families to immigrate. Both categories have annual limits, meaning wait times can be long, and applicants must wait for a priority date to become current according to the U.S. Visa Bulletin before they can get a Green Card (lawful permanent residency).