What is an F-1 Visa?
The F-1 Visa is an academic visa which permits you to attend an accredited college, university, seminary, conservatory, academic high school, elementary school, or other academic institution or in a language training program as a full-time student.
Studying in the US can be a complex topic that requires several questions to be addressed. International students often have queries about starting a business, taking extra classes, taking breaks, working authorization, etc. Our expert student visa consultants at NB Visa World have put together a round-up of FAQs.
With years of expertise in Immigration Consultation, Student Visa Consultation and Investor Visa Consultation some of the biggest F- 1 visa questions on various complex issues, international students can face while in the USA are answered here.
Can a student on F-1 volunteer or undertake an unpaid internship?
Yes. As long as the position meets the Department Of Labour’s criteria for an unpaid internship, it must be clearly stated that no employment relationship exists.
Can an F-1 student take online courses?
Yes. F-1 students can take only one online course or three credit hours per semester as part of their full course load. The rest of the credits must be from other in-person classes.
Can F-1 students travel to US territories on the same visa without applying for a new visa?
Yes. If the territories are considered part of the USA, you may travel freely.
If my F-1 visa is expiring but my program end date has been extended, what should I do?
If your program and date are extending beyond your visa validity you can apply to extend your visa. You may need to re-enter the USA after travelling abroad.
As an F-1 student can I enrol in two schools simultaneously?
Yes, if you get permission from your primary school DSO and the combined course load is considered full-time, you may enrol in two schools simultaneously. The expertise of a US student visa consultant should be sought out to guide you through this process.
Can I change my major or field of study while on an F-1 visa?
Yes, you do have an option to change your field of study or major. However, you must inform your DSO so that your SEVIS record can be updated and a new I-20 can be issued.
As expert student visa consultants in Ahmedabad, we are always here to offer you the most updated information and guide you through your application processes.
What do I do if I need to transfer school but my SEVIS needs to be validated?
If your SEVIS record is terminated, you may need to apply for reinstatement. In some cases, you get an initial I-20 from your new school and re-enter the USA.
Can I start a business in the U.S. while studying?
F-1 students cannot actively manage businesses without proper authorization, they can do so under OPT if the venture is relevant to their studies. Passive investment is permissible without additional authorization.
If my financial situation has changed, will it impact my F-1 status?
If it is found that your finances are unable to support your studies, you can get into trouble. The best is that you report your status to the SO.
Does dropping a course load without prior authorization affect my F-1?
Yes. Dropping a course load can lead to termination of your F-1.
Can I apply for a Green Card when I am on F-1?
This is possible through family sponsorship, employment, or other eligible categories. However, this must be approached with great caution.
Applying for a Green Card and navigating the immigration route can be difficult.
NB Visa World’s expert legal team can guide you through the process.
What do I do if my passport expires while in the US?
The passport must be renewed immediately via your country’s Embassy or Consulate within the US.
If I am offered a job remotely from outside the US, can I take it up?
No. This is usually not allowed.
In case of a family emergency, can I leave the US temporarily when on a Student Visa?
Yes. This can be done. Inform your DSO and get the necessary signatures on your I-20. Ensure that you re-enter the US while your I-20 is valid.
How do I reinstate my F-1 status after falling out of status?
You can reinstate your F-1 status by applying to the USCIS. To do this, you must provide credible evidence demonstrating that the violation was beyond your control and occurred for genuine reasons.
If I run into legal trouble, what happens to my F-1?
This can jeopardise your student’s visa status. A DUI or similar issue can result in your visa revocation. As overseas education consultants with a proven record of expertise, we advise you to always keep a clean record and invest your time abroad wisely.
What happens if an F-1 student gets a DUI or other serious legal charges?
A DUI or other serious legal charges can jeopardise an F-1 student’s visa status. Such incidents may lead to visa revocation, denial of future visa applications, or deportation. Students should consult an immigration attorney immediately if they face legal issues.
Can my partner work when I am on F-1?
Legally your partner cannot work when on an F-1 Visa as he/she is a dependent partner.
NB Visa World Pvt. Ltd. has over 175 franchises and 450+ associates to facilitate student visas, immigration (PR), investor visas, and visitor/dependent visas. We promote 500+ colleges/universities in 25+ countries, guide you in achieving PR in Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and the USA, and offer IELTS/PTE coaching. Our team collaborates with 20+ government-approved immigration lawyers and consultants worldwide.
Start your global journey with NB Visa World Pvt. Ltd. today. Whether you’re looking to study, immigrate, invest, or visit abroad, our expert team is ready to guide you every step of the way. Contact us now and take the first step towards a brighter future.
