The Student Visa (F-1)

In 2006, there were 4,216 degree-granting colleges and universities in the United States; among them are some of the world's most prominent institutions. Naturally, thousands of foreign citizens come to the United States in order to receive a top quality education. The F-1 visa is the most common visa. Shihab & Associates Co., LPA has assisted many foreign students with matters pertaining to their student visas. If you would like to study in the U.S. please contact us. Our knowledgeable attorneys and staff will make your journey to the U.S. simple.

REQUIREMENTS FOR AN F-1 VISA:

There are 4 requirements in order to obtain an F-1 visa.

1. The foreign national seeking the visa must be proficient in the English language. Note, however, that the foreign national may be coming to the U.S. to pursue a course of study in the English language.
2. The foreign national must demonstrate that he or she has sufficient income to complete his or her education. Additionally, the foreign national must prove that they will can pay for room and board while pursuing their education.
3. The foreign national must be attending a university approved by the USCIS. Additionally, the program of study must also be approved.
4. Finally, the institution that the foreign national is attending must fill our form I-20 AB on the foreign national's behalf.

LIMITATIONS OF THE F-1 VISA:

EMPLOYMENT: A foreign national in the U.S. under a valid F-1 visa may work part time. However, the part time employment must be an on-campus job. F-1 students are prohibited from working off-campus unless special circumstances apply and the USCIS approves it.

TRAVEL: A foreign national in the U.S. under a valid F-1 visa may travel outside of the U.S. Upon return, the F-1 student must present their passport, approved visa, and I-20AB. The I-20AB certifies that you are still pursuing your education.

TRANSFER: A foreign national in the U.S. is permitted to transfer schools. However, the USCIS must be notified before any transfer takes place.

DEPENDENTS: A foreign national in the U.S. under a valid F-1 visa may bring his or her dependents to the U.S. on a dependent F-2 visa. However, the dependents are not permitted to work while in the U.S.

ADJUSTMENT OF STATUS: A foreign national in the U.S. under a valid F-1 visa may adjust their status to some other visa at the completion of their studies. However, the F-1 student may not apply for permanent residence from an F-1 visa. The most common practice is to adjust from an F-1 visa to an H-1B visa to begin employment.

Shihab & Associates Co., LPA can help you in any manner you need. Whether you need to obtain your F-1 visa or you want to remain in the U.S. after your studies are complete, our experienced attorneys are here to help. Please contact us to get started.