People preparing certain U.S. immigration applications will need to pay close attention to a form change coming next month.
Beginning September 15, 2026, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is scheduled to publish revised editions of Form I-539, used to request an extension or change of nonimmigrant status, and Form I-765, used to apply for employment authorization.
The change is tied to a new Department of Homeland Security rule that will replace the long-standing “duration of status” system for certain F-1 students, J-1 exchange visitors and I representatives of foreign media with fixed periods of admission. The rule is currently scheduled to take effect September 15.
What applicants need to know
For Form I-765, USCIS is planning to use the new edition dated 09/15/26 starting September 15. There will be no grace period for the transition. USCIS will accept the previous edition if it is properly submitted before September 15, but applications using the old edition on or after that date can be rejected.
Form I-539 is also being revised as part of the new immigration framework. The changes are particularly important for international students and exchange visitors who may need to request additional time in the United States under the new rules.
There are, however, transition rules and exceptions. For example, certain F-1 students who are already in the United States under “Duration of Status” and apply for post-completion or STEM OPT by March 18, 2027, may not have to file a separate Form I-539 for that OPT period. Individual circumstances matter.
Don’t file with an outdated form
If you are preparing an I-539 or I-765 application, check the form edition and USCIS filing instructions before submitting your paperwork. Using an outdated form after the transition date could result in a rejection and delay your immigration process.
Because immigration rules can be complicated and depend on a person’s individual status, applicants with questions should consider speaking with a qualified immigration attorney or an accredited immigration representative.
September 15 is an important date to keep in mind.
