The Department of State has announced that it will now allow first time F-1, F-2, M-1 and M-2 visa applicants to be issued visas up to 120 days before the start date listed on their I-20s. Applicants can apply at any time, but consulates must not issue visas with an initial entry date before 120 days ahead of the beginning of the program. This is an extension of the previous 90 day limit.

Initially entering students are still not permitted to actually enter the US on their F and M visas until the 30 day period prior to the start date on the I-20 form. USCIS will be changing this date to 45 days, but until that happens the rule remains 30 days.

Persons already possessing F and M visas can apply for new visas at any time as long as they have been maintaining student status and their SEVIS records are current.

J-1 and J-2 visas can be issued to exchange visitors at any time before the beginnings of their programs. They are not permitted, however, to enter prior to 30 days ahead of their DS-2019 start date.