F-1 Student Visa Services
Pursue Your Academic Dreams with ImmigraTrust Law
Welcome to ImmigraTrust Law, where we specialize in guiding international students through the F-1 student visa process. Our experienced attorneys are dedicated to helping you achieve your educational goals in the United States.

Our F-1 Visa Services
1. Eligibility Assessment

• Initial Consultation: Determine your eligibility for an F-1 visa based on your acceptance to a SEVP-certified U.S. educational institution and your financial ability to support yourself during your studies.
• Documentation Review: Ensure all necessary documents, such as proof of acceptance (Form I-20), financial support, and a valid passport, are complete and accurate.

2. Application Preparation

• Form DS-160 Filing: Assistance with completing and submitting Form DS-160, the online application for a nonimmigrant visa.
• SEVIS Fee Payment: Guidance on paying the SEVIS I-901 fee and obtaining the receipt required for your visa interview.

3. Visa Interview Preparation

• Interview Coaching: Personalized coaching to prepare you for your visa interview at the U.S. embassy or consulate, including mock interview sessions.
• Supporting Documents: Assistance in gathering necessary documents such as financial statements, academic transcripts, and proof of ties to your home country.

Key Requirements and Process

1. Acceptance to a SEVP-Certified School: Obtain Form I-20 from the U.S. institution you will be attending​​​​.
2. Pay the SEVIS Fee: Complete the payment of the SEVIS I-901 fee ($350) and keep the receipt for your visa interview​​.
3. Complete Form DS-160: Fill out the online nonimmigrant visa application (Form DS-160) and print the confirmation page​​.
4. Schedule Visa Interview: Schedule your visa interview at the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate and prepare the required documents​​​​.

Benefits of the F-1 Visa

• Full-Time Study: Allows you to study full-time at an accredited U.S. institution.
• On-Campus Employment: Permits on-campus employment for up to 20 hours per week during the academic year and full-time during breaks.
• Optional Practical Training (OPT): Provides the opportunity to work in the U.S. for up to 12 months after completing your studies, with an extension available for STEM graduates​​​​.
• Family Inclusion: Your spouse and unmarried children under 21 can accompany you on F-2 visas, although they are not permitted to work in the U.S.​​​​.

​Comprehensive FAQ for F-1 Student Visa
Q1: What is an F-1 Student Visa?

• The F-1 Visa is issued to international students attending an academic program or English Language Program at a US college or university.

Q2: Who is eligible for an F-1 Visa?

• Students accepted into a certified program in a U.S. educational institution who demonstrate sufficient financial support and intent to return home after studies.

Q3: How do I apply for an F-1 Visa?

• After receiving a Form I-20 from a U.S. school, complete the Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application (Form DS-160), and schedule an interview at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate.

Q4: Can I work on an F-1 Visa?

• Students can work on campus part-time during their studies and full-time during breaks. Optional Practical Training (OPT) and Curricular Practical Training (CPT) are also available under certain conditions.

Q5: How long can I stay in the U.S. on an F-1 Visa?

• Duration of status (D/S) which includes the length of your study plus 60 days after completion to prepare for departure, unless you transition to another visa or begin practical training.

Q6: Can I bring my family with me on an F-1 Visa?

• Spouses and unmarried children under 21 can apply for F-2 visas, though they cannot work and have limited study options.

Q7: What is Optional Practical Training (OPT)?

• OPT allows F-1 students to work in their field of study for up to 12 months full-time after completion of their academic program, with STEM graduates eligible for a 24-month extension.

Q8: What happens if my F-1 Visa is denied?

• You can reapply by addressing the reasons for denial provided by the consulate or embassy.

Q9: Are there restrictions on travel outside the U.S. on an F-1 Visa?

• You can travel and re-enter the U.S. as long as your F-1 visa and I-20 form are valid, and you have a re-entry signature from your school's Designated School Official.

Q10: Can I extend my F-1 Visa while in the U.S.?

• You cannot extend the visa itself, but you can apply for an extension of your stay by extending your study program.

Q11: What are the financial requirements for an F-1 Visa?

• You must prove sufficient financial resources to cover tuition and living expenses for the duration of your stay.

Q12: Is health insurance required for F-1 students?

• Health insurance is not mandated by immigration laws, but many schools require it due to the high cost of healthcare.

Q13: Can F-1 students transfer to another school?

• Yes, F-1 students can transfer to another SEVP-certified school by notifying their current school and obtaining a new I-20.

Q14: What is Curricular Practical Training (CPT)?

• CPT allows F-1 students to take up training that is an integral part of the established curriculum of their study program.

Q15: What are the visa options after completing F-1 OPT?

• You may change to another visa status such as H-1B, continue to another academic program, or return to your home country.

Q16: How early can I enter the U.S. on an F-1 Visa?

• You can enter the U.S. up to 30 days before the start date on your I-20 form.

Q17: Can I study part-time on an F-1 Visa?

• F-1 students must maintain full-time student status, but certain exceptions may apply based on the school's guidance.

Q18: Can F-1 students participate in distance learning?

• Yes, but there are limits on the number of online classes you can take per semester to maintain your visa status.

Q19: What should I do if I need to drop out of school temporarily?

• Consult your Designated School Official to discuss your options to maintain status or take a leave of absence.

Q20: How can an immigration attorney help with my F-1 Visa?

• An attorney can guide you through the application process, address legal issues, and help with transitioning to other visa statuses.

Why Choose ImmigraTrust Law?

• Experienced Attorneys: Our team has extensive knowledge of U.S. immigration laws and the F-1 visa process.
• Personalized Support: Tailored guidance and solutions to meet your unique needs.
• Multilingual Services: Fluent in English, Spanish, and Farsi, ready to assist clients from diverse backgrounds.
• Proven Success: High success rate and numerous satisfied clients.

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Related Blog Posts
Enhance your knowledge about the F-1 Student Visa process with these insightful articles from our blog:

• Guide to Getting a Student Visa With Specific Tips for Muslims: Provides steps and tips for Muslims to obtain student visas, addressing specific challenges.

​​​​Contact us today or schedule an introductory call or a legal consultation and take the first step towards a brighter future.