If you’re an international student currently in the U.S. on an F-1 or M-1 student visa—or planning to be soon—listen up! The U.S. Department of Homeland Security has issued an important reminder about how crucial it is to maintain your visa status throughout your stay. Violating these updated rules can lead to immediate removal from the U.S. and being barred from returning in the future.
We’ve broken everything down in simple terms so you don’t miss a beat.
Why It Matters?
Your F or M visa was granted for one purpose only — to study. If you do anything that takes you away from that purpose (like unauthorized work, skipping classes, or dropping courses without permission), you risk losing your legal status.
New Rules to Follow to Maintain Your US Student Visa Status
On Arrival:
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- Enter the U.S. no earlier than 30 days before your program starts.
- Report to your Designated School Official (DSO) immediately after arriving in the U.S., and again by your program start date (listed on your Form I-20).
While Studying:
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- Attend all classes and make academic progress.
- Maintain full-time enrollment. If you’re struggling, speak to your DSO before dropping any classes.
- Need more time to finish your degree? Talk to your DSO before your I-20 end date to request a program extension.
Annual Vacation (For F-1 Students Only):
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- You must complete one full academic year before being eligible for a vacation.
- During your vacation, you can study as much or as little as you want—but must enroll in classes the following term.
Work and Practical Training Rules for US Study Visa Holders in 2025:
For F-1 Students: You can work, but only if it’s:
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- On-campus or
- Curricular Practical Training (CPT) – tied directly to your field of study, or
- Optional Practical Training (OPT) – before or after graduation.
Do NOT work without approval. Unauthorized work = immediate deportation and possible U.S. entry ban.
For M-1 Students:
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- No employment allowed during your studies.
- You may apply for practical training only after completing your program — with DSO and USCIS approval.
After Finishing Your Study Program (Do Not Overstay!)
You must leave the U.S. within:
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- 60 days (F-1 students) after your program or OPT ends.
- 30 days (M-1 students) after your program ends or by the “admit until” date on your I-94 (whichever comes first).
Want to stay longer? Talk to your DSO about:
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- Changing to another degree level (e.g., Bachelor’s → Master’s)
- Transferring to another school
- Switching to a work visa (H-1B, O, etc.)
Always Talk to Your DSO First!
Before making ANY big change, contact your DSO if you’re planning to:
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- Change your major or degree level
- Transfer schools
- Take time off
- Travel abroad
- Move to a new address
- Extend your program
New Announcement: https://studyinthestates.dhs.gov/students/maintaining-status.
