F1 Visa Changes

September 2, 2025 Sylvia Visa 0

F1 Visa Changes

F-1 Visa Changes You Must Know: Latest Updates for 2025

1. Ending Duration-of-Status (D/S): Fixed Visa Validity

  • Key Change: The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has proposed replacing the flexible Duration-of-Status (D/S) model with fixed admission periods, up to a maximum of four years, as indicated on your I-94 form. The Times of IndiaReutersRedBus2US.

  • Impact: After your fixed period ends, you’ll need to apply for an Extension of Stay (EOS) with USCIS—including biometrics and possibly updated financial documentation RedBus2US.

  • Why It Matters: This represents a major shift from open-ended stay durations and may introduce more procedural complexity for students.

2. Academic Restrictions in Year One

  • New Rule: F-1 students may be barred from changing their major, program, or education level during the first academic year, with only limited exceptions granted through SEVP. The Economic TimesRedBus2US.

  • Takeaway: If you’re considering switching majors or schools, plan carefully. Flexibility may only become available after the first year.

3. Social Media Transparency & Enhanced Vetting

  • All F-1 (and F, M, J) applicants must make their social media accounts public, spanning up to the last five years. Consular and DHS officials will review these profiles as part of eligibility assessments. The SunVisafotoDay 1 CPTMayer Brown.

  • The “Catch and Revoke” AI-driven tool may flag accounts deemed to express extremist or political views, potentially leading to visa revocation. Thousands of student visas were already affected in 2025 Wikipedia+2Wikipedia+2.

  • Consequence: Be mindful of your online activity—public posts may now influence your visa status.

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4. Appointment Delays & Resumption

  • In May 2025, visa appointments for F, M, and J categories were paused globally, pending additional vetting guidelines, Mayer BrownWikipedia.

  • Appointments resumed on June 18, 2025, but with stricter social media checks now in place, VisafotoWikipedia.

  • Insight: Expect longer wait times and stringent screening—apply early and be ready for possible delays.

5. SEVP Certification Revocations

  • In May 2025, DHS revoked Harvard University’s SEVP certification, affecting its ability to enroll new visa-holding students. A court injunction later allowed exceptions while litigation proceeds, Mayer BrownWikipedia+1.

  • Lesson: Institutional status may change—stay informed about your university’s eligibility to maintain your student visa.

6. OPT, Cap-Gap, Fee & Grace Period Updates

  • OPT Expansion & Cap-Gap: OPT may now be available to all degree levels, while the Cap-Gap extension for H-1B applicants has been lengthened, easing transitions into work authorization.

  • Financial Adjustments: Proposed increases in the SEVIS fee, a new “visa integrity fee,” and evolving OPT legislation introduce budget considerations and uncertainties

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