New US Visa Rules 2026: Impact on Pakistani Students

The United States has introduced new student visa rules that could significantly affect Pakistani students enrolled at American colleges and universities.

The Department of Homeland Security’s final rule, effective September 15, 2026, will replace the flexible “duration of status” system with fixed admission periods for F-1 students and J-1 exchange visitors.

Four-Year Admission Limit

Under the new system, international students will generally be admitted for the duration of their academic programme, but for no more than four years at a time.

Students enrolled in longer programmes, including PhD, medical and research degrees, may need to apply to US Citizenship and Immigration Services for an extension of stay.

The four-year limit does not prevent students from completing longer degrees, but it adds a formal immigration application, additional fees and greater uncertainty.

Restrictions on Transfers and Majors

The rules also introduce tighter restrictions on changing universities, degree levels and academic majors.

Undergraduate students will generally be unable to transfer institutions or change their educational objective during their first academic year, except in certain circumstances.

Graduate students may face stricter limits on changing majors or transferring universities during their programmes. This could affect students whose supervisors relocate, research funding ends or departments are restructured.

Students completing one programme will also generally be expected to move to a higher educational level rather than begin another degree at the same or a lower level.

Grace Period Reduced

The post-completion grace period for F-1 students will be reduced from 60 days to 30 days under the fixed-admission system.

This means graduates will have less time to arrange travel, transfer where permitted or apply for another lawful immigration status after completing their studies or authorised practical training.

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Impact on Existing Students

Pakistani students already studying in the United States may qualify for transitional protections if they are lawfully maintaining their status when the rules take effect.

However, students who travel outside the US after September 15, 2026, could receive a new Form I-94 with a fixed expiration date when they return.

Students should therefore consult their university’s international student office before travelling or making major academic changes.

Thousands of Pakistani Students Affected

More than 13,000 Pakistani students were enrolled at US higher education institutions during the 2024–25 academic year.

The new requirements could increase costs and administrative pressure for this growing student population, particularly those pursuing lengthy graduate and research programmes.

What Students Should Do

Pakistani students should review their Form I-20, Form I-94, passport validity, programme end date and SEVIS record.

Those expecting to study for more than four years should discuss extension procedures with their university well before their authorised stay expires.

Prospective students should also consider programme duration, funding guarantees and transfer restrictions before accepting admission offers.

The new US student visa rules will make immigration planning more important for Pakistani students, especially those pursuing long-term academic and research programmes.