Student Visas : F-1

Most students who are pursuing academic studies at a college or university in the US must first obtain an F-1 student visa.

There are common exceptions to this general rule. For instance, if a student is a citizen or permanent resident of the US, or if the student is participating in a short-term J-1 program, they  do not need an F-1 student visa.

So, what does this F-1 visa allow students to do? Students may lawfully enter the US. After being admitted to a US college or university, the student applying for the F-1 visa is issued the Immigration Form I-20.

 The F-1 visa allows a student to lawfully enter the US. The student applies for the F-1 visa after being admitted to a US college or university that is authorized to issue the Immigration Form I-20. 

Many international students apply for their student visas at the US embassy or consulate closest to their residence or home country.

Students on an F-1 visa may work part-time during the academic year while in the US.

The visa application process involves a brief in-person interview, and the application instructions vary by location. For a consultation or training in this process to apply for a visa, contact LAEC experts for more information.