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WHAT IS AN F-1 VISA? (from USCIS)

The F-1 Visa (Academic Student) allows you to enter the United States as a full-time student at an accredited college, university, seminary, conservatory, academic high school, elementary school, or other academic institution or in a language training program. You must be enrolled in a program or course of study that culminates in a degree, diploma, or certificate and your school must be authorized by the U.S. government to accept international students.

Who is eligible for an F-1 visa?‍

You must be accepted by a Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) approved school.

• You must be accepted by a Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) approved school.
• You must demonstrate sufficient financial resources to cover tuition and living expenses in the U.S.
• You must intend to return to your home country after completing your studies.

What is the process to apply for an F-1 visa?

• Get accepted to an SEVP approved school and receive a Form I-20 (Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status).
• Pay the SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System) fee.
• Complete the DS-160 online visa application.
• Schedule and attend a visa interview at a U.S. embassy or consulate.

What documents are required for the F-1 visa interview?

• A valid passport.
• Form I-20 from the U.S. school.
• Receipt of SEVIS fee payment.
• DS-160 confirmation page.
• Recent passport-sized photos (per U.S. visa photo guidelines).
• Proof of financial support (bank statements, scholarship letters, etc.).
• Academic records and test scores (e.g., TOEFL, IELTS, SAT, GRE, etc.).
• Evidence of ties to your home country (e.g., property, family, job offers).

What are the work restrictions for F-1 visa holders?

• On-campus employment: Allowed up to 20 hours per week during the school term and full-time during breaks.
• Off-campus     employment: Restricted and requires authorization, such as:
  • Curricular Practical Training (CPT).
  • Optional Practical Training (OPT).
  • Severe Economic Hardship authorization.

Can I bring my family with me on an F-1 visa?

Your spouse and children (under 21) can apply for F-2 visas as dependents. However, they cannot work in the U.S. (spouses) or enroll in full-time study (except for minors in elementary/secondary education).

Can an F-1 visa holder travel outside the U.S.?

Yes, but you need a valid visa and travel signature on your Form I-20 from your school’s Designated School Official (DSO). Re-entry requires valid documentation.

How long can I stay in the U.S. on an F-1visa?

You can stay for the duration of your academic program plus an additional 60-day grace period to prepare for departure or change your visa status.

What is SEVIS, and why is it important?

SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System) tracks F-1 students and their dependents in the U.S. Maintaining your SEVIS record, including reporting address changes or changes in status, is essential to remain compliant.

Can I change schools or programs while on anF-1 visa?

Yes, but you must inform your current DSO and transfer your SEVIS record to the new institution. Your new school will issue a new Form I-20.

What happens if I violate my F-1 visa terms?

Violations (e.g., dropping below full-time status without approval) may result in termination of your SEVIS record and the loss of your legal status in the U.S.

Can I extend my F-1 visa?

The F-1 visa itself cannot be extended, but you can apply for an extension of your stay by obtaining approval for program extensions through your DSO.

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