Charleston Student Visa Attorneys

Helping International Students Pursue a Quality Education in the U.S.

Are you an international student who wants to study in the United States? Our experienced immigration attorneys at Maghzi Law Firm can help you explore your options and guide you through the visa application process. We understand that the immigration system can be complex, especially for those who are not familiar with it. Our Charleston student visa lawyers can make sure you are aware of all your options and help you pursue an opportunity to study in the U.S.

For more information about student visas and how we can assist you, call us at (843) 800-2750 or online today.

What Is a Student Visa?

A student visa is a type of visa that allows an individual to study in the United States. There are two primary types of student visas, the F-1 and M-1 visas, which are for academic and vocational students, respectively. The J-1 visa is also available for students seeking to participate in an academic exchange program.

Types of Student Visas

The three types of student visas are:

• F-1 Visa: The F-1 visa is for students who are attending an academic program or English Language Program. Students must be enrolled in a program that culminates in a degree, diploma, or certificate and must prove that they have a foreign residence that they do not intend to abandon.
• M-1 Visa: The M-1 visa is for students who are attending a vocational or other recognized non-academic school or institution in the United States. Students must be enrolled in a program that culminates in a degree, diploma, or certificate and must prove that they have a foreign residence that they do not intend to abandon.
• J-1 Visa: The J-1 visa is for students who are seeking to participate in an academic exchange program. The program must be sponsored by an educational or other nonprofit institution. Students must also be able to demonstrate their intent to return to their home country upon completion of the program.

How to Apply for a Student Visa

The application process for a student visa will vary depending on the U.S. embassy or consulate where you apply.

However, the process generally goes as follows:

• Complete the Online Visa Application: You will need to complete the DS-160 Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application. You will then receive a confirmation with a barcode that you will need to bring with you to your interview.
• Pay the Application Fee: You will need to pay the nonrefundable application fee.
• Schedule an Appointment: You will need to schedule an appointment with the U.S. embassy or consulate where you will be applying for your visa. You will need to bring the required documentation to your appointment.
• Attend Your Visa Interview: During your visa interview, you will be asked questions about your academic plans, your English proficiency, and your financial situation. You may also be asked about your plans to return to your home country after completing your program.
• Receive Your Visa and Pay the SEVIS Fee: If your visa is approved, you will receive your visa and a Form I-20 or Form DS-2019 from the institution you will be attending. You will then need to pay the SEVIS fee.

How Long Does It Take to Get a Student Visa?

The time it takes to get a student visa will depend on the U.S. embassy or consulate where you apply. It can take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months to get a student visa, so it is important to apply as soon as possible. You should also be sure to bring all the necessary documentation to your visa interview to avoid any delays.

Student Visa Documents Checklist

Before you apply for a student visa, you should gather the following documents:

• Your passport, which must be valid for at least six months beyond your period of stay in the United States
• Your Form I-20 or Form DS-2019
• A passport-sized photo
• Proof of your intent to return to your home country after completing your program
• Proof of your academic preparation
• Proof of your ability to pay for your program
• Proof of payment of the SEVIS fee
• Proof of payment of the visa application fee

Do you have questions about applying for a student visa? Call us at (843) 800-2750 today.