Harvard urges international students to review US travel plans ahead of visa rule changes

International students at Harvard University have been advised to reconsider travel outside the United States ahead of Sept 15, when proposed federal changes to F-1 and J-1 visa rules could alter how their authorized stay is determined.

The guidance comes as the US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) prepares to replace the current "duration of status" system with a fixed period of admission for many international students and scholars.

Under the proposed framework, students entering the US could receive an "Admit Until Date" on their Form I-94. The date would indicate how long they are authorized to remain in the country, instead of allowing them to stay for the duration of their academic program as long as they maintain their immigration status.

Students who are already in the US and remain in valid status when the changes take effect could be covered by transition provisions. Those who travel internationally and return on or after Sept 15, however, could be admitted under the new fixed-date system.

Harvard has consequently asked international students and scholars to consider the timing of overseas travel and ensure they understand the possible immigration implications before leaving the country.

Under the existing system, eligible F-1 and J-1 visa holders can generally remain in the US while completing their academic programs and complying with the conditions of their immigration status.

The proposed rules would instead establish a specific authorized stay period, generally connected to the student's program and the applicable immigration requirements.

The changes could have implications for students who require additional time to finish their programs. They may need to apply for formal extensions rather than relying on the existing duration-of-status arrangement.

Other aspects of the student immigration process, including grace periods, changes in academic programs and transfers between institutions, could also be affected by the proposed framework.

The changes are particularly relevant to Indian students studying in the US who may be planning trips home or travel to other countries around the Sept 15 date.

Students planning international travel have been advised to review their visa records and immigration documents, including Form I-20 for F-1 students, DS-2019 for J-1 participants and Form I-94.

Harvard has also advised students to consult their university's international office before making travel arrangements to understand how the proposed rules could affect their individual immigration status.

Students who expect to need additional time to complete their degree programs or continue through Optional Practical Training (OPT) or STEM OPT may need to pay particular attention to potential extension requirements.

The proposed policy is also facing legal challenges from organizations representing higher education institutions and workers.

Until the rules are changed, blocked or otherwise modified by the courts or the US government, international students are being encouraged to monitor official announcements and seek guidance from their universities before finalizing international travel.