Harvard warns students: return to US before Sept 15 visa rule

Harvard University has advised its international students and scholars to be in the United States before September 15, when new Department of Homeland Security visa rules are expected to take effect for F-1 and J-1 holders. The proposed changes would replace the current duration of status (D/S) system with a fixed period of stay, giving students an Admit Until Date on their I-94 form. Those already in the US when the rule takes effect may keep existing arrangements, but those who travel abroad and return after September 15 will face the new fixed-date admission system. Greatandhra reports that Harvard advised careful planning and contact with international student offices. Livemint reports that the grace period for F-1 students could be cut from 60 to 30 days, and students may need to apply to USCIS for extensions.

The guidance comes as a coalition of higher education organisations and labour unions has filed a lawsuit seeking to block the rule. Harvard acknowledged uncertainty and said some questions may remain unanswered even after the effective date. Indian students planning travel around September 15 should check their visa, I-20 or DS-2019, and I-94 records before leaving, and monitor updates from their university and the courts.