USCIS to Reject Older I-539 and I-765 Forms from 15 September

US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) will reject older editions of Forms I-539 and I-765 from 15 September 2026, leaving applicants with no grace period to switch to the updated versions.

The agency will introduce new editions of both forms on 15 September as part of changes to non-immigrant procedures. The revised forms are intended to reflect new rules establishing fixed periods of admission for academic students, exchange visitors and foreign media representatives.

USCIS has made preview copies of the updated forms and instructions available. However, the new editions must not be filed before the effective date. Electronic submissions will only be accepted from 15 September, while paper applications must be postmarked on or after that date.

Until 14 September, applicants may continue to use the current editions. From 15 September, only the versions dated 09/15/26 will be accepted. USCIS has confirmed that there will be no transition period.

Form I-539 is used to apply for an extension or change of non-immigrant status, while Form I-765 is used to request employment authorisation. Using the wrong edition after the deadline could result in the application being rejected, requiring the applicant to file again and potentially causing additional delays and costs.

The change is particularly relevant to Indian students and professionals, who make up a large share of people navigating the US immigration system. The new form editions do not change the underlying visa process, but applicants must ensure that they use the correct version when submitting their applications.

Applicants filing close to the deadline will need to check the edition date carefully and follow the latest USCIS instructions. Applications submitted before 15 September should use the current forms, while those filed from that date must use the 09/15/26 editions.