DIGNITY Act of 2025 Could End ‘Intent to Leave’ Rule, Redefining F-1 Visa Landscape for International Students

The United States may soon make it easier for international students to study in the country, thanks to the proposed DIGNITY Act of 2025, introduced by Congresswomen María Elvira Salazar and Veronica Escobar alongside a coalition of 20 lawmakers. The legislation seeks to repeal the controversial “Intent to Leave” rule, which has long required foreign students on F-1 visas to prove they plan to return to their home countries after completing their studies.

The rule, critics say, has become a significant barrier for international students, particularly under stricter immigration enforcement in recent years. Students are currently required to demonstrate non-immigrant intent by providing proof of property ownership or other ties to their home country. Failure to convince visa officers of these intentions can result in visa denial, even for highly qualified candidates.

If the DIGNITY Act passes, international students will no longer face automatic scrutiny for their post-study plans, potentially removing a major obstacle to obtaining an F-1 visa. However, the law would not change the process for students wishing to stay in the U.S. after graduation; employment or other visa requirements would still apply.

At the same time, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is proposing a shift from the current “duration of status” system to a fixed-time admission for F, J, and I visa holders. Under this rule, students would be required to leave the U.S. after a predetermined period, regardless of program completion. While this change could help streamline tracking, critics warn it may create challenges for students needing flexibility for internships, research, or academic extensions.

The combination of the DIGNITY Act and fixed-term admissions represents a significant recalibration of U.S. study visa rules. While the repeal of the Intent to Leave requirement may attract more students to U.S. institutions, the fixed-term system could also bring new complexities for long-term academic planning.