Coppell Immigration Attorneys for Student Visas

Guiding Students Through the F-1 & F-2 Visa Process

When a foreign national wants to pursue educational opportunities in the United States, they may be eligible for an F visa. At Christensen Immigration Attorneys, our immigration attorneys help prospective students apply for their visas. We are proud to have assisted numerous students through the immigration process, enabling them to pursue their educational goals.

Qualifying for F-1 Student Visas

This non-immigrant student visa allows individuals to pursue academic studies or language training programs in the United States. The first step in the process is to apply to the school you plan to attend. You will need a form I-20 for the application process for your F-1 visa.

To be eligible for F-1 visas, students must:

• Be accepted into an academic program or language training program in the U.S.
• Maintain a full course of study in that program
• Show they are able to support themselves during their stay

Students must be able to demonstrate an ability to support themselves because there are very limited opportunities for legal employment for individuals with an F-1 student visa. There are many steps to this process and it can be complicated, which is why so many students work with our Coppell immigration attorneys.

Qualifying for F-2 Student Visas

An F-2 dependent visa allows spouses and unmarried children (younger than 21 years) of F-1 visa holders to enter the United States.

F-2 visa holders can:

• Enter the US with their spouse/parent or join them in the country later
• Travel in and out of the United States or remain in the country continuously

Dependents with F-2 visas may not take paid employment positions or go to school full time, with the exception of children engaged in full-time school from kindergarten through 12th grade. They are, however, allowed to engage in recreational or avocational studies.

Applicants for an F-2 visa must submit Form I-20A-B to either USCIS or the U.S. consular office near where you reside.

Essential documents for an F-2 visa application include:

• A copy of your marriage or birth certificate
• Any evidence proving sufficient funds for your support
• Any evidence proving you will leave the United States once the F-1 visa holder completes their education