Harvard University has advised its international students and scholars to plan their travel and consider returning to the United States before September 15, when new US visa rules for F-1 and J-1 visa holders are expected to take effect. The upcoming changes by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) could affect how long international students are allowed to stay in the country.

Students who are already in the US when the new rules begin may be covered under transition provisions, while those travelling abroad and returning after the date could face a different admission process.

Under the proposed changes, the existing "duration of status" or D/S system will be replaced with a fixed period of stay for many F-1 and J-1 visa holders. Students entering the US may receive an "Admit Until Date" on their Form I-94, which could specify the period they are permitted to remain in the country.

Students who are already present in the US and maintaining their visa status when the rule takes effect may continue under transition arrangements. However, those leaving the country and returning on or after September 15 could become subject to the new fixed-date system.

Harvard has therefore urged students to think before making international travel plans around the deadline.

One of the major changes involves the end of the traditional duration-of-status system. Currently, eligible students can generally remain in the US as long as they continue to meet the requirements of their academic programme and maintain their immigration status.

Students may instead receive a specific end date for their authorised stay, generally linked to their programme duration and subject to the rules in force.

Students needing additional time to complete their studies may have to follow a formal extension process. The changes could also affect grace periods, programme changes, university transfers and other aspects of a student's academic journey.

The policy is also facing a legal challenge from higher education and labour organisations. However, until there is any change through the courts or the government, international students are being advised to closely follow official updates and university guidance before finalising travel plans.

– with Agencies inputs --