To change your status from a B2 visitor visa to an F1 student visa while you're in the U.S., you need to follow a specific process.
- School Admission: First, you must apply and be accepted to a Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP)-certified school (8 CFR 214.2(f)(1)(i)). Once accepted, the school will provide you with a Form I-20, which is necessary for your change of status application. This form certifies your enrollment and eligibility for a student visa. Since you're still in the application process, securing your I-20 should be your immediate next step.
- Filing Form I-539: After receiving your I-20, you’ll need to file a Form I-539, Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status, with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). You'll need to provide:
- Proof of your school acceptance
- Financial documentation showing you can support yourself during your studies
- A copy of your I-20
- Important Deadlines: Timing is critical. You mentioned your current B2 visa is valid until April 23rd, so you must file your application before that date. Filing late could result in denial and potential out-of-status issues under the Immigration and Nationality Act (8 USC 1182(7)).
- Processing Time & Travel: The process can take several months. While your application is pending, remain in the U.S. Leaving the country could be interpreted as abandoning your application.
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Hi, I need to change my visit visa status to F1 status. Can you help me with that?
I understand you're looking to change your visit visa status to F1 status. Have you already been accepted to a school in the United States?
I am applying for it soon. I will get the I-20.
When does your current visit visa expire?
My entry is till 23rd April.
Is there anything else the Immigration Lawyer should know before I connect you? Rest assured they'll be able to help with your visa status change.
Just needed to change my status from B2 to F1. And my entry is till 23rd April. Applying for colleges to get my I-20.
Greetings! I hope this message finds you well. Thank you for choosing AskaLawyer as your legal assistance provider. My name is Angelo, and I'm an experienced and licensed attorney with over 40+ years of practice in the field of Law.
To change your status from a B2 visitor visa to an F1 student visa while you're in the U.S., you need to follow a specific process.
- School Admission: First, you must apply and be accepted to a Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP)-certified school (8 CFR 214.2(f)(1)(i)). Once accepted, the school will provide you with a Form I-20, which is necessary for your change of status application. This form certifies your enrollment and eligibility for a student visa. Since you're still in the application process, securing your I-20 should be your immediate next step.
- Filing Form I-539: After receiving your I-20, you’ll need to file a Form I-539, Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status, with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). You'll need to provide:
- Proof of your school acceptance
- Financial documentation showing you can support yourself during your studies
- A copy of your I-20
- Important Deadlines: Timing is critical. You mentioned your current B2 visa is valid until April 23rd, so you must file your application before that date. Filing late could result in denial and potential out-of-status issues under the Immigration and Nationality Act (8 USC 1182(7)).
- Processing Time & Travel: The process can take several months. While your application is pending, remain in the U.S. Leaving the country could be interpreted as abandoning your application.
I hope I was able to help you and answer all of your questions and concerns. Is there any part of my response that you need clarification on or any further information? Did you have any other questions on this subject for me today?
No, thank you.
You’re very welcome! Thank you so much and Happy New Year to you and your extended family! Thank you so much for giving me the opportunity to assist you, and please don't hesitate to reach out if you have any further questions or concerns.
