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F-1 Visa in the U.S.?

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VisaLaws Lawyer Sid

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1,100+ Immigrants secured visas with VisaLaws

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Why Choose F-1

What is the F-1 visa and who is it for?

The F-1 visa is for international students enrolled in full-time academic or language programs in the U.S. It allows students to legally live and study while maintaining visa status through continuous enrollment. F-1 students may also qualify for limited work opportunities like on-campus jobs, CPT, and OPT, depending on the program and school.
F-1 applicants this year
Thousands apply every year. These are just a few we've helped connect with trusted immigration lawyers.
Sofia L. - UC Berkeley
Rahul D. - NYU
Jisoo K. - UChicago
Mateo B. - BU
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Lawyer assigned. Visa in progress.
Avoid Status Issues

How VisaLaws helps you stay on track with your F-1 visa

F-1 students face strict rules on school transfers, employment, and status maintenance. VisaLaws connects you with immigration attorneys who specialize in student visas - so you can avoid mistakes that lead to status loss or future visa denials. Whether you're applying, renewing, or changing status, we help you do it right the first time.
F-1 progress
Aisha R.
Biomedical Engineering
Georgia Tech
Moved from Nigeria to study regenerative tissue - now exploring OPT at a medical startup
100%
Approved
Green card status
35% complete
STEM OPT extension in progress
Filed: July 2025
Expected: November 2025
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Kenji M.
Computer Science
VISA TYPE
F-1 Visa
ELIGIBILTY STATUS
ELIGIBLE
TIMELINE
2-3 months
Citizenship
Visa
How it works

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Zoe Zhang-Louie
details
Email
zoe@zllawoffice.com
Phone #
+18577535818
U.S. City
Boston, MA
Visa Focus
Business & Investment
Years Exp.
10yrs
Language
ES, PT, ZH, FR
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"Hi, I'm Zoe, an immigration lawyer in Boston. I've reviewed your case and can help you get started."

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FAQ

Common F-1 Student visa Q's

What is the F-1 visa for?
For international students attending U.S. academic or language programs full-time.
How do I apply for an F-1 visa?
Get accepted by a SEVP-certified school, receive Form I-20, pay the SEVIS fee, and schedule a visa interview.
Can F-1 students work in the U.S.?
Limited work is allowed: on-campus (up to 20 hours/week), CPT (Curricular Practical Training), and OPT (Optional Practical Training).
What’s the difference between F-1 and M-1 visas?
F-1 is for academic study; M-1 is for vocational or technical training.
How long can I stay in the U.S. on an F-1 visa?
For the duration of your academic program plus 60-day grace period, as long as you maintain status.
What is SEVIS and why does it matter?
SEVIS is the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System. It tracks F-1 visa holders and their schools.
Can I travel outside the U.S. on an F-1 visa?
Yes, with a valid visa stamp, signed I-20, and passport.
Can I transfer schools while on an F-1 visa?
Yes, but it must be a SEVP-approved school and follow proper procedures to avoid falling out of status.
Can I bring my spouse or children on an F-1 visa?
Yes. They can apply for F-2 visas but are not eligible to work or study full-time.
What is OPT and how do I apply for it?
OPT allows up to 12 months of work in your field of study after graduation. Apply through USCIS before or shortly after graduating.
Is there a way to extend OPT beyond 12 months?
STEM degree holders may qualify for a 24-month OPT extension.
Can I change status from F-1 to another visa like H-1B?
Yes. Many F-1 holders transition to H-1B if they find qualifying employment and are selected in the lottery.
What happens if I fall out of status on an F-1 visa?
You may need to leave the U.S. or file for reinstatement. Violating status can affect future visa eligibility.
Can I stay in the U.S. after my program ends?
You get a 60-day grace period to leave, transfer schools, or change status.
Can F-1 students get a green card?
Not directly. But F-1 holders can transition through employment (e.g., H-1B → green card) or marriage to a U.S. citizen.
Do I need a lawyer for an F-1 visa application?
It’s not required but highly recommended for complex cases (e.g., change of status, past violations, reinstatement).
Can I apply for an F-1 visa from inside the U.S.?
Yes, through a change of status if you're already in the U.S. on another visa (e.g., B-2, H-4).
How early can I enter the U.S. on an F-1 visa?
You may enter up to 30 days before your program start date listed on your I-20 form.
What documents do I need for my F-1 visa interview?
Passport, Form I-20, DS-160 confirmation, SEVIS fee receipt, financial proof, and acceptance letter.
What is a D/S (Duration of Status) on an F-1 visa?
It means you’re allowed to stay in the U.S. as long as you maintain full-time student status and comply with all F-1 rules.

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- Vi

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