Guide To Maximize The Student Visa Path In The UniTED STATES

 

Introduction

The United States has been a go-to place for young people from around the world seeking a better education for ages. A lot of these students, drawn in by the top-notch schools, end up sticking around after they finish their studies and make valuable contributions to the American job market with their skills.

As an international student, you actually have an advantage over other non-citizens when it comes to getting citizenship since you already have legal permission to be here for school. After you graduate, you will have a bunch of options to switch your F-1 visa to permanent residency.

To maximise the student visa path in the US, it is important to understand some vital tips to follow before and after obtaining the US student visa. An immigration lawyer in Arlington, TX can help.

To give you a fair idea of what to expect, we have put together some useful tips that can help you take advantage of the US student visa immigration path.

Useful tips to follow while seeking a US student visa

●      Begin the process on time.

The entire application process for the visa may take several weeks or even months. Hence, it is better to start off as early as possible and give enough time for documents and preparatory steps. Getting an immigration lawyer in Arlington, TX will help you kick off the process early enough.

●      Don’t take anything for granted.

This means you should prepare ahead and very well. Learn about the requirements and follow the steps to obtain the student visa. Prepare all your documents and information in advance before entering into the visa interview. An immigration lawyer in Arlington, TX can help you prepare better.

●      Prove links with your native country.

Visa officers need to feel convinced that upon completion of your studies in the US, you will go back home. Get ready to show close links, which can be through family ties, a job, or real estate. If you are confused about how to go about this, an immigration lawyer in Arlington, TX is your go-to person.

●      Be honest and confident.

Respond to all the interview questions with the truth and without stammering. You must sound clear and respectful to the visa officer.

Essential info to guide you after you get a US student visa

Following are some of the very important steps after receiving your US student visa to travel to the United States and school:

●      Get ready to travel.

Book your flight tickets to the United States and fix the transportation from the airport to your staying place. Doing this on time will help you a lot. Another important thing you should do ahead is to look for a house to stay near your school, on-campus, apartment, or homestay. To get a fair deal, involve your immigration lawyer in Arlington, TX.

●      Go for visa orientation (if required).

The requirement of visa orientation in some countries provides useful information about living in the US, basic visa rules, and cultural adjustment prior to travel.

●      Prepare enough money ahead.

You should plan ahead for the money to cover your tuition fees and budget. Your tuition fees should be paid up to date. You should also have the money to make any other necessary arrangements.

Plan a budget for living costs like housing, food, transportation, and personal expenses. Consider opening a US bank account for easier money management. If need someone to guide tyou hrough this, speak with your immigration lawyer in Arlington, TX.

●      Make sure you get the required safeguard for your health.

Most universities require international students to have health insurance while studying in the US. Research and purchase a health insurance plan that suits your needs and meets your school's requirements.

●      Attend orientation and register for classes.

At most colleges, there are orientations for new international students. This is a very good opportunity to take a look at campus resources, academic expectations, and support services. You also register for classes that fit your program during this time. Do not feel scared to ask for assistance from academic advisors or professors; that is why they are there. An immigration lawyer in Arlington, TX can also be of valuable assistance.

●      Try to get used to things around on time.

Arrive in the US a little early to get accustomed to things. Use this time to set up important services like a phone plan, internet, and utilities, especially if one is living off-campus. Getting these done will make the move easier.

●      Play an active role.

Get involved in campus life through clubs, groups, or other activities. These will give you good opportunities to meet people and make friends. Also, familiarize yourself with the local community for cultural experiences or activities that can be enjoyed.

●      Always try to keep up with the latest updates.

Maintain your visa rules, immigration information updates, and changes in your status as a student. You can also call your DSO or international student advisor because they are there to help you. An immigration lawyer in Arlington, TX is another diligent buddy who can help you.

By following these steps and engaging in both academic and social life, you will have a great experience as an international student in the US.

When can you stay longer after your studies?

The options in some instances and based on one's situation would be that, at the close of your studies in the US, the following shall apply:

●      OPT.

Students may apply for this to allow work in the field of study for as long as 12 months. An extension to up to 24 months might be applicable if the study had been about any of the STEM subjects. An immigration lawyer in Arlington, TX can guide you through the OPT criteria.

●      H1-B visa.

In case you receive a job offer in the US from an employer who is ready to sponsor you, you could apply for an H1-B visa. It gives US companies the opportunity to temporarily employ foreign workers for a specific job that requires specialized skills or knowledge.

●      Further studies.

You can continue higher education by getting enrolled in another degree, such as a master's or doctorate.

●      Entrepreneurship.

If you want to open a business, your alternatives could be the E-2 investor visa or the O-1 for people with special talents.

●       Through the family path.

This would be in the case of having close family who are US citizens or permanent residents; then, one would want to consider family sponsorship for a family visa.

●      Other work visas.

Other options might apply to you, such as the TN visa for citizens of Canada and Mexico, or the E-3 visa for Australia.

Understand the eligibility of each option and consult with an immigration lawyer in Arlington, TX on what can be the best approach for your situation. But you may prefer to go back home and apply what you have learnt in the US.

Get help!

Getting a student visa to study in the US is a big step for a lot of international students. By knowing how the visa application process works, getting ready, and keeping these helpful tips in mind, you can confidently make your way to studying in the US.

At Gehi and Associates, we will help you to not only get the chance to study in the US, but also to enjoy your studies in the US. If you intend to stay longer, we can help you make a genuine case based on your unique situation. Get in touch with us today!