USA F-1 Visa 2026: Duration of Status Ending — What Pakistani Students Must Know

What is Duration of Status (D/S) and why did it end?

D/S let F-1 students stay in the US indefinitely while maintaining valid status. The US ended it effective September 15, 2026, replacing it with fixed admission periods. This aligns F-1 with other nonimmigrant visa categories.

What is the new fixed admission period?

F-1 students now receive a fixed 4-year admission period. If your degree takes longer, you must apply for Extension of Stay (EOS) before it expires. Failure to do so triggers a 3-year or 10-year re-entry bar.

Rule Change	Before (D/S)	After (Fixed Period)
Duration	Unlimited (while enrolled)	4 years fixed
Grace period after graduation	60 days	30 days
Extension needed?	No	Yes (Form I-539)
Unlawful presence risk	None while enrolled	After 4-year period expires

How long is the grace period after graduation?

The grace period is reduced from 60 days to 30 days. You have 30 days to depart, transfer programmes, or change status. Plan your departure or OPT application well before your programme ends.

How do I extend my stay beyond 4 years?

File Form I-539 with USCIS. You must demonstrate valid academic reasons, maintain F-1 status, and pay the filing fee. Processing takes 2-6 months — file 3-4 months before your admission period expires.

What are the OPT and STEM OPT rules in 2026?

OPT remains 12 months, with a 24-month STEM extension. Under the new rules, OPT must be applied for within the 30-day grace period (not 60 days). Employment authorization is tied to the fixed admission period.

OPT Type	Duration	Eligibility	Application Window
Standard OPT	12 months	All F-1 graduates	Within 30-day grace period
STEM OPT Extension	24 additional months	STEM field graduates	Before standard OPT expires
Total STEM OPT	36 months	STEM field graduates	—

Do I need to disclose social media accounts?

Yes. Starting 2026, you must disclose all social media accounts used in the past 5 years and make them publicly viewable. Failure to disclose can result in visa denial and permanent inadmissibility.

How can I strengthen my F-1 application from Pakistan?

Demonstrate strong ties to Pakistan (family, property, business), show clear academic and career plans, provide comprehensive financial documentation, and prepare for the visa interview with concise, confident answers.