What is a Student Visa?
A student visa, or F-1 visa, is issued to those who are coming to the United States temporarily to pursue their studies at an established elementary school, high school, college, university, seminary, conservatory, or language school. These visas are temporary and grant the student nonimmigrant status. What are the Requirements to Obtain a Student Visa?
The alien must show that: - He is a student
- The institution he is attending is approved by the Attorney General
- He has sufficient funds to meet his expenses for the period of expected study without having to resort to employment
- He has a sufficient knowledge of the English language
If the student has family, he may obtain an F-2 Visa for his spouse and children. How Do I Apply for a Student Visa?
There are certain steps that an alien must take to obtain an F-1 visa: - The alien must first apply to a U.S. school that has been approved by United States Citizenship and Immigration Services
- If accepted, the school will give the alien an I-20 form which should be brought to a U.S. Consulate to obtain a student visa
- Upon arrival in the United States, the immigrant will receive a Form I-94 (Arrival-Departure Record). This form contains a record of the alien¿s legal admission to the Untied States
- The alien is allowed to stay for as long as he is enrolled as a full-time student. Upon approval, the alien may also be allowed to stay for a year longer to pursue practical training
Do I Need a Lawyer to Get a Student Visa?
Getting a student visa can be complicated and difficult. An experienced immigration lawyer can help you decide whether to pursue a student visa or some other type of visa. An immigration attorney also can help you file any necessary paperwork. |
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