Non-Immigrant Visas:
Student/ Non-Academic Study (F-1/M-1)
In order to qualify for a student visa, applicants for student visas must show sufficient knowledge of English to study or prove that the school will offer language training. Students must also prove access to sufficient funds to cover all expenses while studying in the United States. Study visas are usually valid for the duration of the study course.
F-1 (academic studies at institutions of higher learning)/M-1 (vocational or other nonacademic studies):
In order to apply for an F-1 visa, you will need the original form I-20 A-B from your school signed by you and a school representative. In order to receive an M-1 visa, you will need the original form I-20 M-N from you school. In addition, you will need to pay the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) fee.
F-1 (elementary and high school studies):
Students studying at primary or secondary schools will also need an F-1 visa. A child may not study at a public elementary school with a nonimmigrant F-1 student visa. Study at a public high school with an F-1 visa is limited to one year, and full reimbursement for the total cost of the education must be confirmed ahead of time. Enrolling a child in public school while in visitor (B1/B2) status can result in the child's visa revocation and permanent visa ineligibility for the child's parents. Students attending private elementary and secondary schools are not affected by this law; they may study in the United States on F-1 visas. Students studying on derivative visas, such as F-2, J-2, H-4, or L-2, are also not affected.
Immediate Family Members of F-1 Visa Holders (F-2 visa):
Family members may stay in the U.S. as long as the principal F-1 visa holder maintains valid status. Family members are not allowed to work or study with the exception of children who may engage in full time elementary or secondary school study.
This information does not constitute legal advice.
Consult an attorney for the analysis of your case. |
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