Foreign student visa rule: What changes are coming?
A plain language legal briefing on the end of “duration of status” for F and J visa holders. Learn what the new DHS rule changes, who it affects first, and exactly what to do before it takes effect.
Availibility
Spots Filling Fast
Date & Time
July 31, 2026 • 12:00 PM CT
Hosted By
Kodem Law Attorneys
Virtual Webinar
Students, OPT workers, and employers who attend will know exactly what to do, and what to do first, before the rule takes effect in September.
What Is This Webinar?
On July 16, 2026, DHS finalized a rule that ends “duration of status,” the policy that has allowed international students to stay in the United States for as long as their program lasts since 1978. The rule takes effect in mid September and represents the most significant change to F and J visa policy in nearly 50 years.
This webinar gives international students, OPT workers, and the employers who hire them a clear, practical roadmap. Learn what the rule actually changes, who it affects immediately, how the new extension process works, and the exact steps to take before the deadline.
Whether you are a student in the middle of your program, an employer with OPT hires, or a company sponsoring international talent, you will leave knowing what is at risk and what to do about it right now.
Who Should Attend?
International students on F or J visas, OPT workers, and employers who hire or sponsor international talent, especially PhD and master’s students beyond the four-year mark.
What Will We Cover?
The end of duration of status, the new four year cap, restrictions on transfers and major changes, travel risks, the new DHS extension process, plus what employers need to do.
What Will You Learn?
A clear action plan for your specific situation, plus direct access to Kodem Law’s immigration attorneys during the live Q&A.
Featured Speakers
Kodem Law attorneys specialising in immigration compliance,
DOL matters and corporate law.
Sharadha Sankararaman
Managing Attorney, Kodem Law
Don't wait until September
to find out you've lost status
Students and employers who attend will know exactly what to do, and in what order, before the rule takes effect.
Webinar Agenda
A focused 60 minute session covering the new rule from every angle. Learn what changed, who it affects, what to do next, followed by a live Q&A with Kodem Law attorneys.
12:00 to 12:05 PM
Welcome & Introduction
Quick context on the new DHS rule and why it is the biggest shift in F and J visa policy in nearly 50 years.
12:05 to 12:18 PM
What Just Changed, and Why It's a Big Deal
A plain language summary of the final rule, the end of “duration of status,” the new four year cap, and why this matters now
12:18 to 12:32 PM
The New Restrictions, Transfers, Major Changes & Travel
Learn about restrictions on changing educational objectives or transferring schools without a federal exemption, limitations for first year undergraduates, travel related risks during the transition period, and the new 30 day post graduation window.
12:32 to 12:45 PM
Receiving an Audit Notice - What to Do Right Now
What you are and aren’t required to hand over. How to respond to government investigators without inadvertently creating additional exposure.
12:45 to 12:55 PM
How to Apply for an Extension, and What Employers Need to Do
Understand the new DHS “periodic assessment” extension process, how it works, how to build your case, how the OPT pipeline is affected, and what employers can do to protect employees during sponsorship.
12:55 to 1:00 PM
Live Q&A with Kodem Law Attorneys
Bring your questions. Our attorneys will answer live, including specific visa situations, employer scenarios, extension timelines, and any concerns you may have.
Partners & Sponsors
Our 5,000 attendees are looking to stay on top of the latest trends, meet their next client or partner, and connect with other people interested in the future of technology.
Ticket Price
From entrepreneurs to developers, marketing managers, CEOs and policymakers – all of our 5,000 attendees are looking to stay on top of the latest trends
One day conference pass
$100
Conference Tickets. Free Lunch and coffee, eassy access certificate
Full Conference Pass
$350
Conference Tickets. Free Lunch and coffee, eassy access certificate
Priority Conference Pass
Sold Out
Conference Tickets. Free Lunch and coffee, eassy access certificate
Exhibition Floors & Startups
From entrepreneurs to developers, marketing managers, CEOs and policymakers – all of our 5,000 attendees are looking to stay on top of the latest trends, meet their next client or partner.
Roundtable Sessions & Workshops
From entrepreneurs to developers, marketing managers, CEOs and policymakers – all of our 5,000 attendees are looking to stay on top of the latest trends, meet their next client or partner.
Who Should Attend This Webinar?
International Students on F or J Visas, especially PhD and Master’s students approaching the four year mark
OPT Workers currently employed under post graduation authorization
Students Considering a Transfer or Major Change, since the new rule restricts both
Anyone Who Has Left or Plans to Leave the United States, because travel now carries additional risk
Employers Who Hire OPT Workers, whose hiring pipelines are directly affected
Companies Sponsoring International Talent during an H1B or similar immigration process
What You'll Gain From This Webinar?
A Plain Language Understanding of what the new rule changes
A Clear Picture of whether it affects you and how urgently you need to act
How the New DHS “Periodic Assessment” Extension Process Works
What Changing Majors, Transferring Schools, or Traveling now could mean for your status
What Employers Must Do to protect OPT and sponsored employees
Direct Answers from Kodem Law Attorneys about your specific situation