Student visa

The United States welcomes foreign citizens who come to the U.S. to study. Before applying for a visa, all student visa applicants are required to be accepted and approved by their school or program. Once accepted, the educational institution will provide the applicant with the necessary approval documentation to be submitted when applying for a student visa. Student (F and M) visas for new students can be issued up to 120 days in advance of the start date for a course of study, and students can travel within 30 days from the start date on the Form I-20.

Visa descriptions and qualifications

F-1 visa

This is the most common type of student visa. If you wish to engage in academic studies in the United States at an approved school, such as an accredited U.S. college or university, private secondary school, or approved English language program then you need an F-1 visa. You will also need an F-1 visa if your course of study is more than 18 hours a week.

M-1 visa

If you plan engage in non-academic or vocational study or training at a U.S. institution then you need an M-1 visa.

Dependents

Spouses, including same-sex spouses, and/or unmarried children under the age of 21 who wish to accompany or join the principal visa holder in the United States for the duration of his or her stay require derivative F or M visas. There is no derivative visa for the parents of F or M holders.

Family members who do not intend to reside in the United States with the principal visa holder, but wish to visit for vacations only, may be eligible to apply for visitor (B-2) visas.

Spouses and dependents may not work in the United States on a derivative F or M visa. If your spouse/child seeks employment, the spouse must obtain the appropriate work visa.

Application items

To apply for an F or M visa, you must pay your $160 application fee and submit the following:

• A Nonimmigrant Visa Electronic Application (DS-160) Form.
• A passport valid for travel to the United States with a validity date at least six months beyond your intended period of stay in the United States
• One photograph taken within the last six months.
• An approved original signed Form I-20 from your U.S. school or program.

In addition to these items, you must present an interview appointment letter confirming that you booked an appointment. You may also bring whatever supporting documents you believe support the information provided to the consular officer.

Category of Applications: OPT and CPT

For more Information, advice and expert guidance, kindly contact us.