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. The rule is anticipated to take effect Sept. 15, 2026. While Northwestern analyzes this complex rule, we are working to update our website and communicate guidance as quickly as possible. Members of the Northwestern international community who have questions are encouraged to reach out directly to their assigned OISS advisor.
Visa Delays
Processing times and delays vary by U.S. Consulate/Embassy. A vast majority of visas are issued within days of a visa interview/appointment. Anyone applying for a visa may be subjected to an administrative processing delay or background check that may take several weeks.
Please look at the information on the Department of State website for the embassy you are interested in to determine the standard processing times.
Our Office Can Help
If an administrative delay or background check postpones your intended arrival, please contact intoff@northwestern.edu.
Let us know your name, your student id, the location of the embassy, the date of your visa appointment and what they told you.