US visa rules to change on September 15: Harvard asks international students to return early

Harvard University has advised international students enrolled in on-campus programs this fall to leave the United States before September 15, as the Department of Homeland Security implements new immigration rules. These changes replace the "duration of status" with fixed admission periods for F-1, J-1, and I visa holders. International students, scholars, and exchange visitors must remain physically present in the U.S. on the rule's effective date or risk facing new regulations upon reentry after September 15.

If they leave and return after the change, they'll be subject to the new rules upon their return. The grace period for F-1 visa holders is set to be reduced from 60 days to 30 days, while J-1 visa holders will keep their 30-day grace period. To remain in the U.S. beyond their authorized admission period, students will need to file an extension with the USCIS.

Harvard University warns that international travel after September 15 could alter the Admit Until Date on Form I-94, which might impact future extensions of status. Several other U.S. universities, including Columbia, Ohio State, Georgetown, George Washington, and the University of Chicago, have issued their own return guidelines to inform international students of the new DHS rules.