Generally, a 2255 federal habeas petition must be filed within a year after your federal conviction became final. The court must rule on a petition for writ of habeas corpus within 60 days after the petition is filed.When to File: Time Limits and Tolling Provisions . Upon application, the Magistrate Judge may extend the time to file the transcript. There is a oneyear time limit to file a federal habeas corpus petition under 28 USC s. 2254 (for state prisoners) or a motion under 28 USC s. A federal writ of habeas corpus is a legal remedy available to state and federal prisoners who object to their detention or imprisonment. Of habeas corpus shall be filed at the courthouse specified in the administrative order referenced above. Is There a Time Limit for Filing a Petition? There is a oneyear time limit to file a federal habeas corpus petition under 28 U.S.C. s.