US Tightens F-1 Student Visa Rules From September 2026

The United States will implement new visa regulations for international students starting September 15, 2026. Under the revised rules, F-1 visa holders will be granted a fixed admission period tied to the length of their academic program, capped at four years for most students. A significant change also affects the post-completion grace period, which has been cut from 60 days to 30 days. Students who require additional time beyond their admission period will need to formally apply for an extension of stay through USCIS.