U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has issued an alert announcing the release of new editions for two key forms: Form I-539 and Form I-765. Starting September 15, 2026, only applications bearing the date “09/15/26” will be accepted.
Adopting a strict stance, the agency clarified that applications submitted using older versions of the forms will not be granted any leniency and will be immediately rejected. Let’s look at how this new rule affects you and what you need to keep in mind.
Who Will Be Directly Affected?
This change will directly impact international students and the families of H-1B visa holders residing in the U.S. Form I-539 is used to extend or change non-immigrant visa status; it is primarily utilized by H-4 dependent spouses and children of H-1B visa holders.
Meanwhile, Form I-765 is used to apply for an Employment Authorization Document (work permit), enabling eligible H-4 visa holders to legally work in the United States.
No Grace Period
USCIS has clarified that no additional time will be granted to applicants for this change, as the new rule is necessary to implement updated standards immediately.
However, to facilitate applicant preparation, the agency has made previews and instructions for the “09/15/26” version available. At the same time, a warning has been issued not to submit these new forms prior to September 15, 2026. Deadline rules for Form I-539: For applicants filing Form I-539, the older (08/28/24) version will be accepted if submitted or postmarked before September 15, 2026.
However, any older (08/28/24) versions sent on or after September 15, 2026, will be rejected. Only the new version dated 09/15/26 will be accepted on or after this date.
Deadline rules for Form I-765: For Form I-765, only the older (08/21/25) version will be valid if submitted or postmarked before September 15, 2026.
Any applications submitted using the older version on or after September 15, 2026, will be deemed invalid and rejected. Only the new version dated 09/15/26 will be accepted on or after September 15, 2026.
