F-1 Visa Updates: Proposed Guidelines for Transfers and Staying Post-Studies in the U.S.

Key Takeaways: Why the U.S. government is proposing major changes to the F-1 visa system. What the “fixed admission period” means and how it could replace the current “duration of status” system. How the grace period after graduation may be reduced from 60 days to 30 days. What the new transfer and program change restrictions could mean for international students. Details of the new interview requirement, which is already in effect as of September 2, 2025. How these changes—both proposed and effective—affect staying in the U.S. after graduation. Practical steps current and prospective students should take right now. What happens next in the rulemaking process, and whether the proposals are final.

Studying in the U.S. is a dream for many, but the rules around the F-1 visa just got a little stricter. 

The US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has proposed new guidelines that change how long international students can stay, when they need to transfer, and even what happens after graduation.

Whether you are currently studying in the U.S. or preparing to apply, it’s crucial to understand what’s new and how it impacts your stay. 

This blog will give you a clear picture of all the F-1 visa new rules step-by-step, so you are aware of what the fixed admission period means, how the grace period is shifting, and what actions you should take right now. 

Why did the U.S. Government Change the F-1 Visa Rules?

If you are an international student or planning to become one, you might have probably seen headlines about stricter U.S. new rules for an F-1 visa in 2025, right? But why propose these changes now?

The main reason behind the new visa rules for international students is most probably:

• Clear visa timelines 
• Accurate and consistent Immigration record
• Reduce in case of overstays

Earlier, students could stay in the U.S. for as long as their academic program lasted, which sometimes led to confusion or misuse. Hence, when the previous “open-ended” system (called Duration of Status, or D/S) made it difficult to track international students, the authorities called for a more structured system. 

Please Note: These rules are still proposals—not official yet.

Quick Gist: What are the New F-1 Visa Updates?

Here’s a quick snapshot before we dive deeper:

• Fixed admission period of up to 4 years (no more Duration of Status).
• Grace period cut to 30 days after finishing studies.
• Transfers restricted:

• Undergraduates can’t change majors or schools in the first year.
• Graduates face strict limits on program changes.

• Second degrees restricted: no new program at the same or lower level under the same F-1 status.
• An Extension of Stay (EOS) is required for longer programs, OPT, or second degrees.
• A new visa is required if studying beyond the 4-year term.
• Mandatory in-person interviews for all new and renewal F-1 applicants (since Sept 2, 2025).

What Does the New “Fixed Admission Period” Mean for F-1 Students?

Traditionally, F-1 students were admitted for the Duration of Status (D/S)—meaning they could stay in the U.S. as long as they maintained student status, regardless of how long the program lasted.

Under the new proposal from DHS, this flexibility is being replaced with a fixed, date-certain admission period, generally capped at four years. Your I-94 record (the document showing your authorized stay) will now carry an expiration date aligned with your program end date.

If your studies take longer—say, a five-year PhD—you’ll need to apply for an Extension of Stay (EOS) with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) using Form I-539.

Kindly Note: For students, this means more planning and paperwork to avoid falling out of status.

How is the Grace Period After Graduation Changing?

What came as the biggest shocker to international students is the shrinking grace period. 

• Old Rule: Every student was given a grace period of 60 days after finishing their degree to prepare for departure, apply for Optional Practical Training (OPT), or change their visa status.

• Proposed Rule: The grace period would be shortened to 30 days. 

This means students will have less time to make post-graduation decisions or file the necessary paperwork. 

What are the New Restrictions on Transfer and Program Changes?

The DHS proposal (August 2025) adds strict rules around switching majors, programs, or schools. Under the ongoing Duration of Status (D/S) system, students can:

• Transfer between institutions
• Switch programs fairly 

Note: It is applicable as long as the SEVIS record is updated and approved by the new school’s DSO (Designated School Official). 

However, under the proposed rule, the following changes might be made:

• After enrolling, it may not be possible for graduate students to change to another program.

• Undergraduate students could be restricted from transferring schools or changing majors within their first academic year. 

• Students who finish one program cannot start another at the same or lower level.

What’s Effective: New Interview Rule for F-1 Visa Applicants

Starting September 2, 2025, the U.S. Department of State has discontinued broad interview waivers for most non-immigrant visas, including F-1. 

As a result:

• Now, most F-1 applicants are required to attend in-person interviews at a U.S. consulate or embassy.

• Only minimal categories remain eligible for waivers, like diplomatic/official visas and some B-1/B-2 renewals meeting tight criteria.

• You’ll witness increased scheduling complexity, longer wait times, potential travel costs, and adjustments to your planning.

A quick tip: Book your interview slot as soon as you have your I-20, specifically if you are from a country with high student demand.

How Does this Affect Staying in the U.S. After Studies?

If you plan to remain in the U.S. after completing your degree, whether for work, studies, or research work, the new rules will impact you in the following ways:

• Beyond 4 Years: You’ll need a new visa stamp if your program goes longer than the initial admission period.

• OPT/STEM OPT: These programs still exist, but you will need to apply for an Extension of Stay (EOS) to cover your OPT period.

• Further Studies: If you want to enroll for another degree, you’ll either need an EOS or have to leave the country and reapply for a fresh visa.

What Should F-1 Students Do Right Now? 

Here’s a checklist to help you stay ahead of these changes:

• Complete your program on time. Avoid delays that could force an EOS.
• Maintain full-time enrollment. Falling below could put you out of status.
• Prepare early for OPT/STEM OPT. File paperwork well before deadlines.
• Book your visa interview early. Don’t wait until the last minute.
• Consult your DSO (Designated School Official). They’ll give school-specific advice.
• Track deadlines. With shorter grace periods, timing is everything.

What’s Next – Are These New F-1 Visa Rules Final Yet?

Not quite. The DHS proposal to replace the Duration of Status is currently in the rulemaking process, with: 

• 30-day public comment period (ending Sept 27, 2025). 
• 60-day comment window for paperwork-related changes (ending Oct 27, 2025). 

Universities, international education groups (like NAFSA), and advocacy organizations are submitting feedback, many opposing the strict limits. Final rules could take months to a year to implement. However, the interview requirement is already in force.

The Bottom Line

The new F-1 visa rules mark a big shift in how international students live and study in the U.S. 

• Your stay will now have an expiration date. 
• You’ll have less flexibility to change programs. 
• You’ll need to be faster with post-study planning. 
• And yes, you’ll have to face the visa officer in person again. 

But here’s the good news: the U.S. still welcomes international students, and these rules don’t change that. With careful planning, staying in close touch with your DSO, and being proactive about deadlines, you can still make your American education dream a reality.

FAQs

1. What are the new rules for an F-1 visa in 2025?

In 2025, the U.S. introduced a mandatory in-person visa interview rule (effective September 2). Other proposed changes—like fixed admission periods, shorter grace time, and tighter transfer rules—are still under review, not final.

2. How long can F-1 visa students stay in the U.S. after their program ends?

Currently, students get a 60-day grace period after completing their program or OPT. Under the proposed DHS rule, this would shorten to 30 days, but that change has not been finalized yet.

3. How to stay in the U.S. after an F-1 visa?

Options include applying for OPT, STEM OPT extension, H-1B work visa, another academic program, or status change. Proposed rules may require more USCIS approvals for extensions, so careful planning and legal guidance are recommended.

4. What are the restrictions while staying in the U.S. on an F-1 Visa?

F-1 students must remain enrolled full-time, avoid unauthorized employment, and report changes through SEVIS. Transfers or program changes require approval. Proposed rules may add stricter USCIS oversight on extensions and grace periods.

5. What is the 5-month rule for an F1 Visa?

The 5-month rule means that if a student is outside the U.S. or not enrolled for more than 5 months, they may lose F-1 status. Re-entry often requires a new I-20 and possibly a new visa.

6. Will F-1 students get a green card?

F-1 visas are non-immigrant visas, so they don’t directly lead to a green card. Students may transition through H-1B, employer sponsorship, family petitions, or EB categories, but this requires a separate legal process.

7. How many years can we stay in the U.S. on an F1 visa?

Currently, students can stay as long as they maintain status and remain enrolled, including OPT. The proposed rule would cap stays at program length (up to 4 years), with USCIS approval required for extensions.