An F-1 visa is issued to foreign nationals who wish to enter the United States temporarily for education. F-1 visa holders must attend an academic program that can lead to a certificate or a degree. F-1 visa holders’ main purpose in the U.S. is to study, thus working is normally not permitted. However, under certain circumstances, F-1 visa holders can participate in curricular practical training (CPT) and optional practical training (OPT) during the period of study or after graduation. The validity of CPT and OPT varies based on the applicants’ fields of study. When applying for an F-1 visa at a U.S. consulate overseas, it is critical for applicants to show their financial ability to support their studies in the U.S, their strong connections with their home country, as well as their intent to return to their home countries upon the completion of their studies. The dependents of an F-1 visa holder can apply for an F-2 visa, which grants them the right to live in the U.S. during the validity of the principal applicant’s F-1 visa. F-2 visa holders are not allowed to work in the U.S.
F-1 Visa Questions & Answers
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How is the grace period for F-1 visas working out?
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How can my EB-5 application move faster as an F-1 holder?
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What if the US embassy accepts and then refuses my F-1?
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What happens if I leave the US with a pending I-539 application?
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How will the new social media scrutiny affect my application?
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What is my US status after I file for an EB-5 visa as a student?
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Can I study at university while I wait for my EB-5 visa?