F Visa

The F-1 visa is designed for full-time students enrolled in academic or language programs.

To qualify, applicants must:

• - Be accepted by a SEVP-certified school (Student and Exchange Visitor Program).

- Demonstrate sufficient financial support to cover tuition and living expenses.

- Maintain a residence abroad with no intent to abandon it.

SJKP LLP assists applicants with I-20 documentation review, proof of financial capability, and interview preparation to minimize risks of denial.

Spouses and unmarried children under 21 of F-1 visa holders may apply for F-2 visas.
F-2 spouses are not permitted to work, but F-2 children can attend school at the K-12 level.
We help families coordinate visa timelines, extensions, and change-of-status filings to maintain lawful presence.

All F-1 students are tracked through the SEVIS system (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System).
Schools issue Form I-20, which must be presented during the visa interview and upon entry to the U.S.
Our attorneys advise students and institutions on SEVIS reporting obligations to avoid status violations.

Before applying, a student must receive an acceptance letter from a SEVP-approved institution.
The school will issue Form I-20, verifying enrollment eligibility and financial preparedness.

Applicants pay the SEVIS I-901 fee and complete Form DS-160, the online nonimmigrant visa application.
SJKP LLP reviews documentation for accuracy, ensuring all information matches the I-20 and passport details.

The applicant then schedules an interview at a U.S. .mbassy or consulate.
Common questions include academic goals, funding sources, and post-graduation plans.
Our attorneys provide mock interviews and tailored guidance to address red flags, such as prior visa denials or weak ties to the home country.

Upon arrival, students must report to their designated school officer (DSO) and maintain full-time enrollment.
Failure to do so may result in termination of SEVIS status and loss of legal stay.

Students must remain enrolled full-time during each academic term.
Dropping below the required credit hours without DSO authorization can lead to status violations.
We assist students in securing reduced course load authorizations or reinstatement where necessary.

F-1 students may work on-campus up to 20 hours per week during school terms and full-time during breaks.
Off-campus employment requires authorization through:

• - Curricular Practical Training (CPT) – for internships integral to the program, or

- Optional Practical Training (OPT) – for up to 12 months of post-graduation work experience.

STEM graduates may qualify for a 24-month OPT extension, giving them up to three years of work authorization.
SJKP LLP guides students and employers in preparing compliant CPT/OPT applications and E-Verify documentation.

Students changing programs, degrees, or transferring schools must update SEVIS records and obtain a new I-20.
We assist in seamless transitions to prevent unlawful presence or termination of SEVIS status.

If additional time is needed to complete studies, students must request a program extension before the I-20 expires.
SJKP LLP prepares timely extension filings and liaises with school officials to ensure uninterrupted status.

Graduating students may transition from F-1 to another visa, such as:

• - H-1B (Specialty Occupation)

- O-1 (Extraordinary Ability)

- E-2 (Investor Visa)
We help design long-term immigration strategies, including potential pathways to permanent residency.

If an F-1 student falls out of status due to unintentional violations, reinstatement may be possible by filing Form I-539.
Our attorneys assess eligibility and prepare compelling statements of hardship and compliance.

Denials often stem from perceived immigrant intent, insufficient funding, or inconsistent documentation.
We help students reapply strategically, correcting weaknesses and reinforcing nonimmigrant intent through credible evidence.

Working without proper authorization or failing to update SEVIS records can result in serious consequences, including deportation.
Our firm helps students appeal terminations and coordinate reinstatement or departure plans with minimal disruption.

Students completing OPT must plan carefully to maintain status during job searches or H-1B lottery cycles.
We develop personalized strategies that align with career goals and immigration timelines.

You may remain in the U.S. .or the duration of status (D/S), as long as you maintain enrollment and comply with F-1 regulations.

Yes.
Spouses and children under 21 may apply for F-2 visas to accompany you, though spouses cannot work while in the U.S.

Only with prior authorization.
Off-campus work is limited to CPT or OPT programs approved by your DSO and USCIS.

The F-1 is a non-immigrant visa requiring intent to return home.
However, students may later adjust status through employment (H-1B, EB-2), marriage, or investor visas if circumstances change.