State Department Guidance about D/S Final Rule
J-1 Exchange Visitors: State Department Guidance on the DHS Fixed Admission Period Rule
The U.S. Department of State has issued implementation guidance for the DHS Final Rule that replaces Duration of Status (D/S) with a fixed period of admission for J-1 exchange visitors effective September 15, 2026.
Key Points for the Penn Community
1. J-1 programs are not limited to four years.
The State Department confirmed that existing Exchange Visitor Program regulations remain unchanged. For example, Research Scholars and Professors may still be sponsored for up to five years, and Student categories may continue for the full academic program. The four-year limitation applies to DHS admission and extension-of-stay practices, not to Department of State program eligibility.
2. New J-1 entrants after September 15, 2026 will receive an Admit Until Date (AUD).
Individuals entering the United States in J status on or after September 15, 2026 will receive a fixed end date on their I-94. If additional time is needed beyond the AUD, they must either apply to USCIS for an Extension of Stay or depart and seek readmission with updated documentation.
3. Accurate program dates will be increasingly important.
The State Department directs sponsors to ensure that DS-2019 program dates accurately reflect the anticipated duration of the exchange visitor’s program. Penn will review program dates carefully and, where appropriate, document expected completion timelines in SEVIS and on the DS-2019.
4. Current J-1 exchange visitors may benefit from transition provisions.
The guidance provides an important transition pathway for individuals currently in D/S status. In certain circumstances, exchange visitors whose records are appropriately updated before September 15, 2026 may continue under D/S for the approved period without immediately requiring an Extension of Stay.
5. Program extensions may now require additional immigration steps.
If a program is extended beyond an individual’s AUD, the exchange visitor will generally need either:
- A USCIS Extension of Stay approval, or
- International travel and readmission with an updated DS-2019.
What Penn Is Doing
ISSS is reviewing Department of State and DHS guidance, evaluating the impact on Penn-sponsored exchange visitors, and updating internal procedures to support departments, scholars, and students. Additional guidance will be provided as federal agencies release further implementation details.
At this time, departments and exchange visitors should continue to work closely with ISSS regarding any anticipated program extensions, changes in program dates, or long-term planning beyond September 15, 2026.
This guidance is based on State Department Directive 2026-01 issued August 10, 2026.