Immigration and Nationality Act Creates F-1 Student Visa Classification

Congress enacts the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) establishing the F-1 visa category for international students and introduces the Duration of Status (D/S) framework, allowing students to remain in the United States as long as they maintain valid status in their academic program. This foundational policy presumes institutional accountability and student compliance. The framework will remain unchanged for 74 years before enforcement-centered reforms begin.