USCIS to Enforce New I-539 and I-765 Editions from 15 September

US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) will require applicants to use new editions of Forms I-539 and I-765 from 15 September 2026, with earlier versions rejected and no transition period.

Form I-539 is used to apply for an extension or change of non-immigrant status. It is commonly used by F-1 students who need additional time to complete their studies, start a new programme or pursue optional practical training (OPT). Form I-765 is used to apply for employment authorisation and obtain an Employment Authorisation Document (EAD).

The new editions, both dated 15 September 2026, are intended to implement a recently finalised rule establishing fixed periods of admission and a formal extension-of-stay process for categories that have traditionally been admitted for “duration of status”. The changes affect F and M students, J exchange visitors and I media representatives.

USCIS has published preview copies of the new forms, but they cannot be submitted before 15 September. Applications filed using the new editions before that date will be rejected.

The current editions, dated 28 August 2024 for Form I-539 and 21 August 2025 for Form I-765, will remain acceptable until 14 September. From 15 September, only the new editions will be accepted. Applicants who submit the wrong version may have to refile, which could affect their lawful status or employment authorisation if deadlines are approaching.

USCIS has also reiterated its requirements for photographs submitted with applications. Photographs must be unmounted and unretouched. Evidence that an image has been edited or enhanced may delay processing and could result in the applicant being required to attend an appointment at an Applicant Support Center to verify their identity.

The changes are particularly relevant to international students applying for status extensions or OPT, as well as foreign workers relying on timely EAD approvals. A rejected application submitted near the end of an applicant’s authorised stay or close to an employment start date could disrupt studies or work.

For applications filed around the 15 September deadline, applicants will need to check the edition date carefully and ensure that the correct form is submitted within the required timeframe.