F-1 Visa for Academic Students

F-1 visa is issued to students who are seeking to study in the U.S. The applicant must: have a school which is authorized to issue I-20 to him/her, have foreign residence with no intention of abandoning it, is a bona fide student qualified to pursue a full course of study, seek to enter the U.S. as a student “temporarily and solely for the purpose of pursuing such a course of study at an established institution of learning or other recognized places of study in the U.S., and have sufficient financial support.

Under the newly amended immigration law, the F-1 students cannot attend a public elementary school or publicly funded adult education programs. If s/he attends public secondary school, s/he must pay tuition to the school board. The attendance must not exceed 12 months.

Period of Stay. The period of stay for F-1 student is the durational period of study in the U.S. depending how long it takes s/he to complete the study.

Work During Study. Off-Campus Employment (part time) is allowed with school permission and USCIS authorization if there is severe economic hardship. Full time employment is permitted during vocation. After completion of study in the school, student can apply for full-time employment during the 1-year period of optional practical training.

Change of Status. During or before the expiration date of practical training, students may apply for change of status from F-1 to H-1B Professional Workers, if an U.S. employer will provide them with a job offer which is related to the courses of their studies. The job can be a part-time or full-time position.

Family Members (spouse/children). Student’s family members can accompany or follow to join the student with F-2 visas. They cannot work without USCIS authorization.