How to Maintain Your F-1 Visa Status


Keeping your F1 visa status will be very important for you if you want a successful academic journey in the U.S. Being an F-1 Visa Students means that you need to follow some rules if you want to be on the right path if you want to do justice and live in freedom in your studies, work, and life. Every requirement matters, from going to classes to knowing what employment options are available. With this guide, the key steps are simplified to help you remain on track, avoid complications and make the most of your experience as an international student. Stay on track for your dream!

1. Follow Arrival Guidelines

Once you receive your F-1 visa, you may want to start travelling. But you can only enter the U.S. 30 days before the classes begin. When you arrive you need to go to your school’s international office within 30 days and update your SEVIS record with your local address.

Moreover, if you change your address immediately inform the international office. When you finish your program, you have sixty days to be out of the U.S. To stay longer, consider options like:

  • Enrolling in a higher program.

  • Transferring to another school with a new Form I-20.

  • Changing your visa status.

2. Stay Enrolled and Attend Classes

Full time enrollment is mandatory for F-1 visa . On average, less than 12 credit hours per semester is required from undergraduate students. For example, graduate students should check with their schools to see if their full-time requirements have changed.

Failing to have passing grades or to miss classes can put your visa status at risk. If you are having difficulties in academics, speak to your international advisor. They can assist you in pleading for an extension if you are unable to go through with your program as planned.

3. Understand Employment Rules

It is okay if you’re working while studying and on an F-1 visa, but there are certain regulations by which and when, and it will impact both the F-1 visa status as well as education.

On-Campus Employment

  • You work up to 20 hours per week during the semester.

  • Working full time (up to 40 hours) per break or summer.

  • Make sure the job you're doing is on campus imprinting.

Off-Campus Employment
Authorization is necessary for off campus jobs and those need to be related to your field of study. Visa cancellation is possible if there is unauthorized work.

Optional Practical Training (OPT)

  •   may work up to 12 months off campus with OPT.

  • Employment must be connected to your course of study.

  • Complete your degree before you apply for OPT.

  • After school sessions, you can work part time and after graduation, you can work full time.

Curricular Practical Training (CPT)

  • CPT is an internship (or practical work) that is necessary to satisfy the requirements of a degree program.

  • You must have been full time enrolled for the equivalent of at least one academic year.

  • Before starting any CPT work, you need authorization.

4. Re-Entry After Leaving the U.S.

You may want to travel home during breaks but remember:

  • Check that your absence is less than 5 months.

  • Make sure to carry with you essentials: a valid Form I-20 and F-1 visa stamp, and a passport valid for 6 months after your return.

However, if your program is complete, you are unable to reenter the U.S. as an F-1 Visa Student unless you enter another program or have an authorized OPT job.

5. File Your Taxes

As F-1 visa , you are even supposed to file a tax return if you were present in the U.S. during the previous year. Local Firms can make the entire process easier by handling your compliance as you receive maximum refunds.

Key Takeaways

  • Make sure to follow all of the guidelines to keep your F-1 status as a student.

  • Enroll full-time and show up to class.

  • You must work only within permitted rules and secured permission for off campus jobs.

  • Return to the U.S. with the right documents if you’ve travelled abroad.

  • File your tax returns on time.

Keeping your F-1 visa student status intact throughout will make your US study experience pleasant and rewarding. Stay informed and organized and you’ll be able to aim for your academic dreams.

Are you ready to be successful as an F-1 visa? Come join EBETEC Language Academy in Miami! With their maestro programs with expert English, supporting staff and dynamic campuses, they will help you sufficiently in your studies and US experience. Apply today! Check EBETEC Language Academy’s website or call +1 305-850 3550.
Location: Parking lot, 18288 Collins Ave, Sunny Isles Beach, FL 33160, USA

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