Immigration Alert: DHS Rule Postponed

Updated September 15, 2026

The DHS rule that was scheduled to take effect on September 15, 2026 has been postponed as a result of a nationwide court injunction issued on September 14, 2026. All current F-1/J-1 regulations remain unchanged while litigation continues.

OGS is closely monitoring the developments regarding this rule. Because the situation remains subject to ongoing legal and regulatory developments, we will continue to monitor the matter and provide updates as new information becomes available. This page will be updated as new information becomes available.

Guidance on New DHS Rule

Who Must Complete Immigration Clearance?

You must complete OGS’ immigration clearance within 30 days of your program start date if you are:

  • A new F-1/J-1 international student with an Initial I-20/DS-2019
  • A new or continuing F-1/J-1 student with a Change of Degree Level I-20/DS-2019
  • A new or continuing student with a Change of Status I-20/DS-2019

You must complete OGS’ immigration clearance within 15 days of your program start date if you are:

  • A new or continuing F-1/J-1 student with a Transfer Pending I-20/DS-2019

Required documents

  • Valid passport
  • Electronic copy of your Visa Stamp (PDF recommended)
  • Electronic copy of your I-94 or Change of Status approval notice (PDF recommended)
  • Valid address in the U.S.

Online Immigration Clearance process

1 Arrive in the U.S.*

  • You must have physically arrived in the U.S. on an F-1 or J-1 visa before you can complete the Online Immigration Clearance

*If you have a transfer pending, change of degree level, or change of status I-20/DS-2019, you may already be inside the U.S.

2 Receive the Office of Global Services Online Immigration Clearance email.

  • The Office of Global Services will email your Northeastern student email account ([email protected]) with a link to the e-form at the beginning of the academic term

3 Follow the link to the e-form and complete all of the information requested of you.

  • The e-form can be completed on a desktop, laptop, or other mobile device

4 If you are having complications with your e-form, please contact the Office of Global Services.

NOTE: J-1 scholars and visiting student do not need to complete the Office of Global Services check-in process and must only attend their mandatory clearance session.