Harvard urges int'l students to return to US before Sept 15; here's why

Harvard University has advised international students and scholars to return to the United States prior to September 15, as new visa regulations are set to commence. The recommendation pertains to F-1 and J-1 students enrolled in on-campus programs this autumn. The Department of Homeland Security intends to replace the existing "duration of status" system with a fixed period of authorized stay for many international students and scholars.

Those present on the 15th and maintaining valid status will generally be permitted to remain until the later of their program's end date or the expiration of eligible post-completion work authorization, with a maximum limit of four years. However, individuals who depart and re-enter the U.S. on or after September 15 will be subject to the new system upon their return.

Under the current system, F-1 students can typically remain in the U.S. as long as they meet the requirements of their academic program and maintain valid immigration status. The upcoming changes will provide students with a specific end date for their authorized stay, with the I-94 record potentially carrying an "Admit Until Date" corresponding to their program's conclusion.

Students requiring additional time would need to apply for an extension via US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). The existing system allows universities to extend a student's program dates without a separate USCIS application for an extension of stay, a practice that could be impacted by these new regulations. Another distinction lies in grace periods.

Currently, F-1 holders enjoy a 60-day grace period, while J-1 holders benefit from a 30-day grace period. However, F-1 students under the new rules will see their grace period reduced to 30 days. Harvard is urging students and scholars to contemplate their presence in the U.S. upon the policy's implementation, especially those planning international travel around the deadline.

Students from nations like India contemplating travel should review their visa documents, I-20 or DS-2019 forms, I-94 records, and consult their university's international office before embarking on their journey. The new policy is also under legal scrutiny, with a coalition of higher education organizations and labor unions filing a lawsuit to prevent the rules from taking effect.

They have sought a preliminary injunction from a federal judge, but no injunction has been granted yet, leaving September 15 as the anticipated implementation date for students planning their travel.