THE HOLT LAW GROUP

F-1: Student and Non-Academic (M-1) Visas

To qualify for a student visa, applicants must show sufficient knowledge of English or prove the school will offer language training and prove access to sufficient funds to cover all expenses while studying in the U.S.

F-1 Visas

To be issued F-1 visas, aliens must have valid educational purposes and provide without working their own support and to pay all school costs. Regulation changes make it impossible for foreign nationals to study at public schools or publicly funded adult education unless the study is less than 12 months and the alien reimburses for the unsubsidized cost. In order to apply, the original form I-20 A-B is needed signed by you and a school representative. You will need to pay the SEVIS fee.

Application Process:

Application for status to attend school is made either at U.S. Consulates or in the U.S. if lawfully in the U.S.

Acceptance must be to qualifying schools authorized to accept foreign students. Applicant must obtain the I-20 from the school. If the application is made in the U.S., attendance at school may not begin until approval.

Duration of Visa:

The F-1 visa is issued to the student by the consulate for the expected period of study and can be a multiple entry visa. The I-20 is also noted with the expected date of completion with the "Duration of Status" stamp.

The M Visa:

Visas are issued to individuals that attend trade or vocational schools. The school must have permission to issue the visa and individuals are not permitted to change status after completion to an H-1 utilizing degrees earned in M status.