DHS Proposes to End Duration of Status (D/S) for F-1, J-1, and I Visa Holders
On August 28, 2025, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) published in the Federal Register a proposed rule to end the system of Duration of Status (D/S) for F-1 students, J-1 exchange visitors, I visa holders (foreign media), and their dependents.
This change could bring more costs, risks, and uncertainty to thousands of international students. The good news is that the rule is not final yet. DHS has opened a period for public comments, and anyone can participate.
Key Dates
- Official publication: August 28, 2025
- Public comment deadline: September 29, 2025 (main rule)
- Comment deadline for forms: October 27, 2025
How to Submit a Comment
- Go to Regulations.gov
- In the search bar, enter the rule number: 2025-16554
- Click “Comment”
- Write your message in English (simple is fine).
- Review and click “Submit.”
What to Write
The strongest comments show the real impact on your life or community. Avoid copy-paste messages; personalize your story.
Tips:
- Explain who you are (student, dependent, professor, institution, NGO, etc.)
- Describe how the change would affect you (costs, risk of denial, fear of not completing studies, difficulty planning).
- Highlight the contribution of international students to the U.S. (economy, culture, research).
- Respectfully ask DHS to withdraw the rule.
Sample Comments
Example 1 – University Student
I am an F-1 student currently pursuing my undergraduate degree in the United States. I respectfully oppose the proposed rule to eliminate Duration of Status (D/S).
This change would require me to file for extensions with USCIS, adding high costs and long delays. If my extension is denied, I would be forced to leave before completing my degree, despite maintaining full-time enrollment and good academic standing.
The current system already ensures accountability through my Designated School Official (DSO). Adding USCIS filings creates unnecessary barriers and anxiety for students like me.
I ask DHS to keep Duration of Status in place so international students can complete their studies without fear of interruption.
Example 2 – English Language Student
I am studying English in the United States on an F-1 visa. My program often requires extensions because language learning can take more time depending on each student’s progress.
Under the proposed rule, every extension would require a USCIS filing, which is expensive and uncertain. Many English language students come from modest backgrounds, and this would make studying in the U.S. almost impossible.
I urge DHS to consider the financial and emotional hardship this rule would cause and to withdraw it.
Example 3 – Dependent (F-2 or J-2)
I am the spouse of an F-1 student. This proposed rule affects not only students but also their families.
With a fixed period of stay, our family would face instability. If my spouse’s extension is delayed or denied, we would all be forced to leave the U.S., disrupting our children’s education and our family’s well-being.
International students and their families contribute positively to U.S. communities. Please maintain the Duration of Status system to provide stability and fairness.
Final Message
This is a unique opportunity to show the government the real impact of this change. Every comment co