The H-1B visa is available to foreign workers in special fields who have at least a bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience. Employers must sponsor applicants and demonstrate that the position requires special knowledge. The visa is subject to an annual cap, except for petitions filed by cap-exempt employers such as universities and nonprofit research institutions.
Brooklyn Student Visa Lawyer
Brooklyn Student Visa Attorney
Furthering your education in the United States can be an exciting experience. In order to do so, students from other countries must secure a student visa. This process can be complex, especially for those unfamiliar with immigration laws. A Brooklyn student visa lawyer at Pollack, Pollack, Isaac & DeCicco, LLP can help students navigate this legal process to achieve their academic goals.
Understanding U.S. Student Visas
A U.S. student visa is a legal document that allows a person to study in the United States. It is a temporary document, but it is necessary for the time you are studying in the country. There are three different types of student visas available in the U.S.
- F-1 Visa. This visa is for academic students. This covers individuals in pursuit of academic studies at an accredited institution, such as a college or university.
- M-1 Visa. This visa is for vocational students. This covers students enrolled in vocations or non-academic programs. Examples include culinary schools, aviation schools, fashion schools, and cosmetology schools.
- J-1 Visa. This visa is for exchange visitors. This covers those involved in approved exchange programs. Examples include au pair programs, professors, summer work programs, camp counselors, and medical training.
Eligibility for U.S. Student Visas
In order to apply for a U.S. student visa, individuals must meet certain requirements. These include:
- Being enrolled in an approved institution. Students must be enrolled at a school that has a Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP).
- Ability to speak English. Students must be proficient in English. If they are not, they must be enrolled in classes that aid in proficiency.
- Proof of sufficient financial funds. Students must be financially stable in order to cover tuition costs and living expenses for the time they are in the country.
- Intention to return home. Students must show that they have an intention to return to their home country upon finishing their studies.
The Student Visa Application Process
Obtaining a U.S. student visa in Brooklyn requires the completion of a few major steps. First, the student must be accepted into the Student and Exchange Visitor Program. The institution that the student is enrolled in will issue a Form I-20 for F-1 and M-1 visas. For J-1 visa holders, a Form DS-2019 will be issued.
Once the student receives this document, they pay the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) fee. This makes sure that their information is in the government database.
The student must then complete a nonimmigrant visa application online, which provides their travel details and personal information. This is called the DS-160 form. After submitting the form, the student must attend an interview at their local U.S. consulate. At the interview, the applicant will provide supporting documentation, including proof of funds and academic records.
The applicant must also provide proof of intent to return to their home country once their program is over. This includes property, assets, land ownership, job offers, bank statements, or businesses in their home country. They may also show social and personal ties, such as statements from family members, participation in local organizations, or proof of close family members residing in their home country.
Common Challenges in the Student Visa Process
The student visa process can be complicated at times. There are certain barriers and challenges that are common for those seeking a student visa in the U.S., including:
- Proving they have sufficient funds to cover all expenses. Applicants must show that they have financial support. Paying for both education and living expenses can be costly, and proving they have the means to do so can sometimes be challenging.
- Proving their intent to return home. This can be easier to prove for more established individuals who have tangible ties to their home country, such as businesses, property, and bank accounts. However, those who do not have evidence-based ties to their country may find it difficult to prove their intent to return.
- Proper documentation. There are multiple visas that are considered student visas. Some applicants may find it difficult and overwhelming to understand which visa they should apply for.
FAQs
Contact Pollack, Pollack, Isaac & DeCicco – Dedicated Student Visa Law Firm
Applying for a student visa does not have to be a difficult process. The seasoned legal team at Pollack, Pollack, Isaac & DeCicco can help you in the legal process to further your education in the United States.
Contact us today to get started. We can start with an online, face-to-face consultation to answer all of your student visa questions. Our knowledgeable immigration lawyers can discuss your options with you in many different languages, so you never have to worry about a language barrier in our communications.
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