New visa rules for international students in 2026: US

Let’s find out more in detail:

• CPT (Curricular Practical Training) must be an integral part of your academic curriculum.

• 12 months of full-time CPT makes you ineligible for OPT (Optional Practical Training).

• Standard OPT still provides 12 months of post-completion work authorisation.

• STEM OPT continues to offer an additional 24-month extension for eligible STEM degrees.

• Fixed four-year admission period proposal: Instead of staying in the US for “as long as your program requires,” students would be admitted for a maximum term as mentioned in their I20, not exceeding 4 years and must finish their studies within that period unless they apply for an extension.

• Students would have only a 30-day grace period after program completion: After finishing their degree, students would have just 30 days instead of 60 days to prepare for departure, apply for OPT, or change status—cutting the current time in half.

• Any time needed beyond the four-year limit would require a USCIS Extension of Stay (EOS): If the program takes longer than four years (common for certain STEM majors or graduate research), students would need to file an extension request with USCIS (United States Citizenship and Immigration Services) rather than relying on their DSO (Designated School Official) to extend their Form I-20, that proves their legal enrollment in a program of study in the US.

• EOS applications would include biometrics: Students would need to attend a biometrics appointment and pay additional fees, which could slow down processing and create delays in continuing studies or applying for OPT.

• Reduced flexibility: Students may have less flexibility to change majors, switch programs, or extend their study plans. Because these changes would no longer be processed through SEVIS alone, students may need USCIS approval through an Extension of Stay. This requirement can add processing time and may limit how easily program changes can be made.

• Possible impact on OPT application timelines: OPT timelines may also be affected if a student needs additional time to finish their program. If the four-year limit expires before program completion, the student must wait for USCIS to approve an Extension of Stay. This may result in longer processing times.

• Broader social media vetting is now applied to all F, M, and J applicants.

• Interview waivers have been significantly reduced; most students must attend in-person interviews.

• Temporary suspension of new student visa appointments in 2025.

• Overall increase in entry screenings and document checks at the US ports of entry.

• Possible restrictions on changing majors or programs, especially in the first academic year.

• Travel during a pending extension (OPT, EOS, etc.) may be treated as abandoning the application.

• New national security rules may lead to longer processing times for visas and work authorisations.

• Visa integrity fee of $250 might take effect from 2026, but implementation guidelines have not yet been released. This will be an additional cost that students should plan for.

• CPT/OPT and STEM OPT under increased scrutiny: Federal agencies and Congress are considering tighter regulations on CPT, OPT and STEM OPT. A rule restricting or ending STEM OPT may be introduced in late 2025 or early 2026, and employers/students may face stricter compliance checks related to job duties, training plans, e-Verify, and reporting changes.

While the US continues to offer strong academic and career opportunities for international students, the proposed 2026 visa changes point to a more structured and closely monitored system. Fixed admission periods, reduced grace timelines, stricter CPT and OPT oversight, and increased screening mean that students will need to plan their courses, work authorisation, and post-study options more carefully.

This is where IDP can support you throughout your US study journey. From helping you choose universities and programs that align with visa timelines to guiding you on CPT, OPT, STEM OPT, and extension planning, IDP ensures you stay informed and compliant at every stage. Our counsellors track policy updates closely and help you prepare for visa applications, interviews, and long-term pathways, so you can focus on building your academic and professional future in the US with clarity and confidence.

Talk to an IDP expert today for free for more details and make your study-abroad journey smooth and stress-free.

Disclaimer: The information in this article is not intended as visa or immigration advice. Please verify any policies or updates on the relevant official government website or consult your visa or migration advisor or lawyer.