United States updates immigration rules for visas and residency

The United States Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is implementing significant changes to immigration regulations affecting various non-immigrant categories and residency eligibility.

Starting September 15, 2026, the DHS will replace the ‘duration of status’ model with a fixed period of admission for F (students), J (exchange visitors), and I (media representatives) visa holders. Under this new rule, individuals will be admitted for the duration of their specific program, not to exceed a maximum of four years. Those requiring additional time must apply for extensions through U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. Current holders under the old rules will automatically transition to the new system, with their authorized stay limited to four years from the rule's effective date.

Additionally, the DHS has issued an interim final rule expanding legal residency options for certain children born in the United States. The regulation broadens eligibility from the children of foreign diplomats to include children of ‘foreign government employees.’ This category encompasses accredited diplomats, certain embassy or consulate workers, and individuals officially employed by a foreign government or certain immune international organizations. The rule excludes certain personal staff, state-owned enterprise workers, and contractors.