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Alert

On July 17, 2026, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security published a final rule that establishes a fixed time period of admission and an extension of stay procedure that impact students and scholars on F-1 and J-1 visas, and other academic restrictions specifically for F-1 students. The rule is anticipated to take effect Sept. 15, 2026 and will affect members of the international community in different ways. As OISS gathers more information and communicates specific guidance to individuals and groups, we ask that members of the international community refer to the DHS Rule on Admission and Extension webpage as an up-to-date resource. Members of the Northwestern international community who have questions are encouraged to reach out directly to their assigned OISS advisor.

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Visa Compliance and Requirements

While visiting, the B-1 or W-B visitor must abide by the following restrictions:

Visit Length and Purpose

  • The visitor is limited to a stay of 90 days or less without extension for the purpose of consultation and/or observation.
  • The visitor cannot intend to obtain employment within the US, including a change of status to J-1 or H-1B.

Activities While at Northwestern University

  • The visitor cannot displace US workers and will not have a research appointment through Northwestern University.
  • The visitor cannot participate in or volunteer services/expertise toward any exercise essential to departmental operations.
  • The visitor must be in the presence of a supervisor when observing the use of lab equipment.
  • The visitor may not be involved in any patient contact or interact with any research subjects, either directly or indirectly.
  • The visitor cannot be paid for services, but may be reimbursed for travel expenses and/or given assistance with accommodations.

Financial Support and Affiliation

  • The visitor must have an institutional affiliation in his or her home country or country of residence.
  • The visitor must have adequate finances and sufficient health insurance to support himself/herself for the duration of stay.

The department must report any changes/violations related to the visitor’s stay to the IO.