It is very important that you understand
the following: The F-1 visa is for students who plan to study in the
US and then return to their home countries. You cannot use the
F-1 visa to work in the US. You cannot use the F-1 visa to immigrate
to the US. As an F-1 student you must attend school and be making
progress in your studies.
Getting Your F-1 Visa
You must apply at the US embassy or consulate office
in your country. While the application process varies from country
to country, a few things are always the same:
First you must have an I-20 to apply for an F-1 visa.
The I-20 indicates that you have been accepted for study at the
school, and the start date of your program among other information.
Second, you will need various forms from the embassy.
You can usually obtain these forms on-line at the embassy's website,
or by visiting the embassy directly. Most embassies make the forms
available in your country's language; however, the answers
must usually be written in English.
Third, you will need proof of your financial resources.
If you are an LSI student, when you apply for the I-20 our online
application form will tell you the MINIMUM amount of resources you
need to show. Of course, the more you can show the better. Your
proof can take the form of a statement from your bank or your parents'
bank that is less than 30 days old. If you are using bank statements
from someone outside of your immediate family you should also obtain
an affidavit of support from that person and be ready to answer
why that person is willing to support you.
In some countries you can simply mail your forms in
and wait for your visa. In other countries you may have to go to
an interview with an embassy official. If you are going to an interview
contact us for some helpful tips and information.
Expiration Date
Your F-1 visa will have both an Issue Date
and Expiration Date. But, the most important dates
are on your I-20. The report date on your I-20 determines when you
may enter the US and the expiration date on your I-20 determines
when you must leave. For more information click FAQ.
The expiration date on your F-1 visa is NOT the date
you must return to your country. Think of your F-1 visa as a ticket
into the US. Once you are in, the expiration date does not matter,
as long as you hold a valid I-20 and I-94.
The only problem you will have with an expired F-1
visa is if you leave the US. You will not be able to re-enter the
US on an expired F-1, even if your I-20 is up-to-date. Of course
you can always apply for a new F-1 visa in your country.
Copyright 2008, Language Systems International - English school and TOEFL school.
