The U.S. Department of Homeland Security published a new final rule in the Federal Register on July 17, establishing a fixed time period of admission and changes to the extension of stay procedures for F nonimmigrant academic students and J exchange visitors.
Previously, F students and J-1 exchange visitors were allowed entry into the Unites States for an unspecified period of time, referred to as “duration of status,” to pursue an education at an authorized university or trade school.
Taking effect in September, the new rule limits students to programs that do not exceed four years past the admission dates on their I-20 forms and must submit an Extension of Stay (EOS) with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services if they need additional time to finish their program.
A University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP) student, who elected to remain nameless, is a junior on a F-1 nonimmigrant visa. Travelling across the border from Mexico is a part of the students‘ daily commute and he believes these changes add uncertainty to the pressure of studying across the border.
“These changes, it seems, can come out of nowhere and things change very fast,” the student said. “It adds to the pressure of having good grades and staying [focused].”
The new final rule also decreases the duration of stay after a student’s departure date from 60 to 30 days. This can create an additional challenge for students seeking employment after graduation.
“Now, when I look at internships, I have to see if they will sponsor,” the student said. “Even if I like the company and I will do well in the position, I need to be a U.S. citizen. It is discouraging, honestly.”
The student said the Office of International Programs (OIP) at UTEP is his primary resource for support, and he appreciates the effort OIP makes to keep international students up to date with regulation changes and information regarding exchange programs.
OIP is a UTEP Division of Student Affairs and supports international students by providing advising services and immigration guidance to increase the success of international students and scholars at UTEP.
The office sends monthly newsletter updates to students and can assist students in navigating international programs.
“UTEP is carefully reviewing the new Department of Homeland Security regulation affecting F-1 and J-1 students and scholars, monitoring federal guidance and working with immigration professionals to provide accurate information and individualized advising,” said UTEP officials in a written statement. “UTEP is committed to the success and well-being of our international students.”
OIP offers walk-in virtual advising Tuesdays and Thursday, and more information can be found on UTEP’s Office of International Programs and Study Abroad website in both English and Spanish.
The Student Exchange and Visitor Program will hold an hour-long live webinar, noon Aug. 31, reviewing the changes established in the new final rule and answering frequently asked questions.
The new final rule changes are set to take effect Sept. 15, and more information can be found on the Department of Homeland Security’s Study in the States website.
Kayla Rodriguez is a staff reporter and may be reached at [email protected]