US Tightens Visa Filing Rules From Sept 15
What Happened
The US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) will introduce revised versions of Form I-539 (status extension/change) and Form I-765 (work authorization) from September 15, 2026. Applicants using older versions after that date risk having their applications rejected.
Key Takeaways
The change affects H-1B families, H-4 dependents, international students, exchange visitors and other non-immigrants. USCIS has confirmed there will be no grace period, making it essential to use the new forms for status extensions, visa changes and employment authorization requests.