Have a question
F-1 Visa (Student Visa)
The F-1 Visa is a non-immigrant visa that allows foreign nationals to study full-time at a U.S. academic institution, including universities, colleges, high schools, language training programs, and other recognized educational institutions.
What is an F-1 Visa?
The F-1 Visa is designed for students who wish to:
Enroll in full-time academic programs in the United States.
Pursue studies at universities, colleges, high schools, seminaries, or language training programs.
Participate in practical training opportunities related to their field of study.
Key features of the F-1 Visa include:
Validity is based on the duration of the academic program, plus optional practical training periods.
Allows eligible spouse and unmarried children under 21 to accompany the visa holder on F-2 dependent visas.
Enables on-campus employment and limited off-campus work through programs like CPT (Curricular Practical Training) and OPT (Optional Practical Training).
Requires enrollment in an accredited U.S. educational institution and maintenance of full-time student status.
Why Choose an F-1 Visa?
Study at prestigious U.S. educational institutions.
Spouses and children can accompany the student on F-2 dependent visas.
Eligible to participate in practical training programs to gain U.S. work experience.
Ideal for students seeking international education and career advancement.
Can serve as a stepping stone for future work or permanent residency opportunities in the U.S.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for an F-1 Visa:
Must have acceptance from a SEVP-certified U.S. school.
Must demonstrate sufficient financial resources to cover tuition and living expenses.
Must show intent to return to home country after completion of studies.
Must maintain full-time enrollment throughout the program.
Must meet health, security, and admissibility standards.
Examples of evidence for eligibility:
Form I-20 issued by the SEVP-certified institution.
Bank statements or financial documentation demonstrating ability to cover tuition and living costs.
Academic transcripts and standardized test scores.
Passport and identification documents.
Documentation for dependents applying for F-2 visas.
F-1 Visa Process
Acceptance & Form I-20: Get accepted by a SEVP-certified school and receive Form I-20.
Visa Application: Complete Form DS-160 online and pay the SEVIS I-901 fee.
Consular Interview: Schedule and attend an F-1 visa interview at a U.S. consulate.
Visa Approval & Entry: Upon approval, enter the U.S. and begin the academic program.
Maintain Status: Maintain full-time student status, update SEVIS records, and follow visa rules.
Optional Practical Training (OPT) & Curricular Practical Training (CPT): Eligible students can gain work experience in their field of study.
Documents Required
Valid passport.
Form I-20 from a SEVP-certified U.S. school.
Form DS-160 confirmation and visa application fee receipt.
SEVIS I-901 fee payment receipt.
Financial documentation proving ability to cover tuition and living costs.
Academic transcripts, diplomas, or certificates.
Standardized test scores (if required by the school).
Birth and marriage certificates for dependents (F-2 visa applicants).
Additional supporting documents as requested by the consulate.
Timeline & Processing Time
Visa Application & Consular Interview: 2–6 weeks, depending on consulate availability.
Form I-20 processing by school: 1–4 weeks, depending on the institution.
Overall Timeline: Typically 1–2 months, depending on documentation and consulate schedules.
F-1 vs. Other Student Visas
M-1 Visa: Vocational or non-academic programs.
J-1 Visa: Exchange programs, cultural and educational exchanges.
F-1 Visa: Academic and full-time study at U.S. institutions with potential for practical training.
How We Help
We provide full support for F-1 Visa applicants:
Guidance on selecting SEVP-certified schools and programs.
Assistance with Form DS-160, SEVIS I-901, and visa application procedures.
Support in preparing academic, financial, and personal documentation.
Guidance for consular interviews and F-2 dependent visas.
Step-by-step support throughout admission, visa application, and post-arrival processes.
Why Choose Us for F-1 Visa Assistance?
Expertise in U.S. student visa applications.
Proven success in F-1 visa approvals for diverse programs and institutions.
Assistance with documentation, visa procedures, and dependent applications.
Personalized guidance for students and their families.
Trusted partner for students seeking international education in the U.S.