A Division of the International Studies Office
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CPT NOTICE
Effective immediately, UVA is suspending the authorization of non-required, course-credit CPT requests. This includes opportunities tied to academic credit, which are integral to the program of study but not required for degree completion. Visit CPT Update | International Students & Scholars Program for the latest information.
Duration of Status & Academic Mobility
On September 14, 2026, a nationwide preliminary injunction was issued, which blocks the Elimination of Duration of Status rule from taking effect and prohibits DHS and USCIS from implementing it. The government is expected to appeal the injunction. Please continue to monitor our FAQ page, which we will continue to update with any developments as the case continues.
The Department of Homeland Security's rule introduces significant changes to regulations governing F and J visa holders, including:
- The elimination of Duration of Status
- Restrictions on academic mobility
For more information visit FAQ: Elimination of Duration of Status & Academic Mobility | International Students & Scholars Program
Visa Stamp
Validity
The visa stamps in passports are only used for admission to the U.S. in a specific status. Upon entry into the U.S. visa stamps are not the controlling document for legal status in the U.S. A valid, unexpired visa is not required for maintenance of legal status. If you will be traveling abroad during your program and plan to return to the U.S. to continue your program and your visa has expired, it must be renewed prior to returning to U.S. Do not mistake the validity of your visa for the duration of approved stay in the U.S.
Entries
The visa stamp also indicates whether it is a single (S or 1) or multiple (M) entry visa. A multiple entry visa allows the bearer to use the visa enter the U.S. to continue their current J-1 program as many times as they want or need to do so as long as the visa and the DS-2019 form are both still valid.
Two Year Home Residency Requirement
The visa will also indicate whether the bearer is subject to section 212(e) of the Code of Federal Regulations, also known as the two-year home residency requirement. Click here for more detailed information about the 2 year home residency requirement.