USCIS to Replace Form I-539 and I-765 From September 15, 2026

Urgent USCIS Update: New I-539 and I-765 Forms Effective September 15, 2026 – No Grace Period

Attention foreign students, exchange visitors, and other non-immigrants in the U.S.! A critical deadline is approaching: September 15, 2026. USCIS will mandate new editions of Form I-539 and Form I-765, and there will be no grace period for submitting older versions. Understanding this change is crucial to avoid application rejection.

This update stems from a new USCIS rule impacting nonimmigrant academic students, exchange visitors, and foreign media representatives. The updated forms are specifically designed to support the revised admission and extension-of-stay procedures, as outlined in the Federal Register.

Understanding the New USCIS Visa Forms

The updated forms, carrying an edition date of 09/15/26, are set to replace previous versions:

• Form I-539: Replacing the 08/28/24 edition.
• Form I-765: Replacing the 08/21/25 edition.

USCIS strongly advises applicants not to file these new editions before September 15, 2026. Applications using the 09/15/26 forms will only be accepted if submitted electronically or postmarked on or after that date.

Conversely, the older editions of these forms will only be valid until September 14, 2026. Beginning September 15, USCIS will strictly reject any applications submitted using the previous versions.

Crucial Filing Dates and Potential Risks

For individuals like Indian students and workers in the U.S., this change primarily represents a filing-compliance issue, rather than a new visa application process. The critical factor is timing: submitting the incorrect form edition after the deadline will lead to rejection, forcing applicants to re-file and potentially causing significant delays.

The absence of a grace period is a key aspect that applicants must take seriously. To assist with preparation, USCIS is publishing preview copies of both new forms and their instructions, allowing applicants to familiarize themselves with the changes well in advance of the switch.

To clarify the filing timeline:

• Before September 15, 2026, use the old editions (I-539: 08/28/24; I-765: 08/21/25).
• On or after September 15, 2026, you must use the new 09/15/26 editions for both Form I-539 and Form I-765. Older versions will be rejected.

Key Actions for Applicants

To ensure a smooth application process and avoid rejection, follow these essential steps:

• Always check the specific edition date of the form immediately before filing your application.
• If you are filing your application before September 15, 2026, make sure to use the currently accepted form edition.
• If you are filing on or after September 15, 2026, you must exclusively use the new 09/15/26 edition.
• Do not attempt to submit the new form editions prior to September 15, 2026, as they will not be accepted.
• Always consult the latest USCIS instructions before submitting your application, whether electronically or by mail, for any last-minute updates or specific requirements.

This update is a practical compliance adjustment, but the strict no-grace-period rule significantly increases filing risk. All applicants, especially Indian students and workers, should diligently verify the correct form editions before submitting any application on or after September 15, 2026.