What is an F-1 visa?
The F 1 visa or student visa is a nonimmigrant visa for international students wishing to study in the U.S. Immigrate.tech will help you file an F 1 visa application if you are planning to enter the U.S. to attend a university or college, high school, private elementary school, seminary, conservatory, language training program, or other academic institution.
Before starting your application you must be accepted into one of the institutions which are members of The Student Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP).
Can I work in the U.S. with an F-1 visa?
This type of student visa is mainly intended for educational purposes. You are allowed to work, however, 20 hours a week on campus during the term and full-time while school is in recess (approval of the Department of Homeland Security may be required).
Please remember that a full-time employment with an F1 visa is a serious violation!
Can I bring my family to the USA with an F-1 visa?
Yes, you are allowed to bring your closest relatives (a spouse or unmarried children under the age of 21). A member of your family may accompany you to the U.S. under the F-2 visa.
What are the F-1 visa requirements?
To apply for this type of visa, an applicant must meet the following criteria:
- Be admitted to and receive an offer from one of the Student Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) approved educational institutions.
- Provide proof of your intent to return to your home country after completing the educational program, as well as other strong ties to your home.
- Have enough funds to cover the expenses of studying and living in the U.S.
- Prove fluency in written and spoken English via standardized English proficiency tests like TOEFL or the IELTS.
What documents are required?
- Nonimmigrant Visa Application (Form DS-160)
- 2 photographs meeting the U.S. Visa photo requirements
- Proof of paid F1 visa fee and the SEVIS I-901 fee
- Form I-20 provided by your institution or educational program
- Your education certificates:
- Degrees and diplomas
- Standardized test scores
- Transcripts
- Acceptance letters from the educational institution which accepted you
- Financial standing proof (at least one of the below):
- Bank statements for the last 3 years
- Proof of any scholarship received
- Tax records for the last 3 years
- Pay stubs of previous employment
- Proof of the approved loan if you are funding your U.S. education through a loan.
- Form I-134, Affidavit of Support if you are sponsored by someone else in the U.S., and their bank statements for the last three years.
- Prepaid tuition fee for the first year (optional)
- A passport that is valid for six months beyond the period of your intended stay in the United States
The list may vary depending on each individual case, you may be requested additional documents other than listed above.
How much does it cost?
U.S. government fees are mandatory and nonrefundable:
- USCIS Student Visa application (Form DS-160) fee: $160
- SEVIS I-901 fee: $200
The total cost can vary depending on each individual case. The figures above do not include attorney fees, professional assistance and translation fees, travel costs, securing needed documents, postage, etc. Government fees may change by the decision of the government.
Application advisory fee charged by Immigrate.tech: from $399
Application tips:
- Submit your valid and up-to-date official documents
- Do not provide false, misleading or fraudulent information or documents
- Answer all of the questions honestly
- Avoid spelling mistakes
- Provide as much information as you can