English 
Português 
Español Frequently asked questions
Questions about F-1 Visa
Straight answers related to this visa.
-
What is the ”SB-1 visa”?
The SB-1 visa allows permanent residents absent for exceptional reasons to reverse the loss of status, making it essential to prove the continuous intention to reside in the U.S.
-
What is the ”SEVIS Fee Transfer”?
The SEVIS Fee Transfer allows transferring the SEVIS fee payment when changing institution or program, ensuring compliance with rules and avoiding new payments.
-
What is the ”SEVIS Transfer Release Date”?
The SEVIS Transfer Release Date indicates the authorized start for transferring the records of F visa students, ensuring a secure transition in compliance with U.S. immigration regulations.
-
What is the ”SEVP Portal”?
The SEVP Portal is a platform that facilitates the updating and review of data for international students, ensuring compliance with U.S. immigration laws.
-
What is the ”student orientation fee”?
Fee charged to cover initial orientation costs for students in the USA, essential for academic integration and compliance with immigration regulations.
-
What is the ”university policy on pass/fail courses”?
University policy on pass/fail courses defines evaluation rules and their impact on academic records, essential for international students to maintain legal status and academic performance.
-
What is the ”USCIS Service Center”?
The USCIS Service Center processes immigration requests with rigor and transparency, making it essential to follow official channels to avoid errors and ensure the legality of the process.
-
What is the ”visa issuance fee”?
The ''visa issuance fee'' is a charge applied when issuing the F visa, based on the principle of reciprocity between countries; always consult official sources to avoid unforeseen issues.
-
What is the ‘Designated Port Program’ for students?
The Designated Port Program facilitates the entry of students with F visas at specific ports, ensuring efficiency, security, and compliance with US immigration regulations.
-
What is the ‘F-1 public school limitation’?
The F-1 visa limits the access of foreign students to public schools in the US, requiring them to seek private institutions approved by SEVP for long-term academic courses.
-
What is the “2-year rule” and does it apply to the F-1?
The "2-year rule" requires residence in the country of origin for J-1 visa holders but does not apply to F-1 student visa holders in the US. Respecting immigration laws is essential.
-
What is the “Department of State”?
The U.S. Department of State manages visas like the F visa, regulates procedures, and ensures immigration processes comply with official regulations, guaranteeing safety and legality.
-
What is the “English Proficiency Waiver”?
The English Proficiency Waiver waives the English proof requirement for students with education in English, subject to evaluation by the institution and authorities, ensuring security in the process.
-
What is the “financial stability letter” from my company?
A financial stability letter is a document that proves the companys financial health, ensuring resources to cover the applicants costs during the F visa in the USA.
-
What is the “Form I-20 (Continuation Page)”?
The continuation page of the Form I-20 complements essential information for international students to maintain their compliance with U.S. immigration regulations.
-
What is the “Form I-20”?
The Form I-20 is essential for international students, proving acceptance and financial ability to obtain the F visa and maintain legal status during studies in the USA.
-
What is the “Form I-539”?
Form I-539 is the official form for extension or change of non-immigrant status in the U.S., essential for F students to maintain their lawful status.
-
What is the “H-1B Cap-Gap Extension” for F-1?
The H-1B Cap-Gap Extension allows F-1 students on OPT to legally remain in the U.S. during the transition to the H-1B visa, ensuring continuous work authorization and regular status.
-
What is the “honor code” at some universities?
The honor code is a set of rules that values academic integrity, essential for the success and maintenance of students'' legal status in the USA.
-
What is the “Language Proficiency Placement Test” upon arrival?
The Language Proficiency Placement Test evaluates your English to properly integrate into classes in the USA without affecting your immigration status.