Our Services
Student Visas
Planning to study in the U.S.? There are three primary types of student visas: F-1, J-1, and M-1. The F-1 and J-1 visas allow for limited employment opportunities during your stay, while the M-1 visa is strictly for vocational studies and does not permit work. Understanding these visa categories is essential for managing your finances and ensuring a smooth application and arrival process. Navigating student visa requirements can be complex. Let us guide you through the application process so you can focus on your studies with peace of mind.
Ask us for our free immigration guide to learn more about the process.
Update your immigration status by scheduling a consultation with us.
Types Of Student Visas
Academic Studies (F1)
The F-1 visa is the most common visa for international students pursuing academic programs at U.S. institutions. It allows students to work on campus and, in some cases, participate in Optional Practical Training (OPT) to gain work experience. Understanding F-1 visa regulations can help you make the most of your educational journey.
Practical Training (J1)
The J-1 visa is designed for students participating in exchange programs that include practical training not available in their home country. Like the F-1, it allows for employment under specific conditions but requires sponsorship from an approved exchange visitor program.
Non-Academic Vocational (M1)
The M-1 visa is for students attending vocational or non-academic programs, such as technical schools. Unlike F-1 and J-1 visa holders, M-1 students are not permitted to work while studying and must provide proof of sufficient funds to cover tuition and living expenses for their entire stay.
Student Visas
Getting accepted to a school in the U.S. is an exciting achievement — but getting your student visa approved is just as important.
If you’re planning to study in the U.S., you may be wondering:
What kind of visa do I need?
How long can I stay in the U.S. on a student visa?
Can I work while studying?
What happens after I graduate?
What if I want to stay in the U.S. longer?
We’re here to answer all of that — and more.
Whether you’re applying for the first time or are already in the U.S. on an F-1 visa, our immigration attorneys are ready to help.
Student Visas
The most common U.S. student visa is the F-1 visa. It’s a nonimmigrant visa that allows international students to:
Attend an accredited U.S. college, university, high school, or language school
Remain in the U.S. as long as they maintain full-time enrollment and good standing
Apply for Optional Practical Training (OPT) after graduation
Apply for CPT (Curricular Practical Training) while in school
Potentially explore long-term immigration options after finishing their studies
There are also M-1 visas for vocational or nonacademic programs, and J-1 visas for exchange visitors and scholars.
Student Visas
To be eligible for an F-1 student visa, you must:
Be accepted by a SEVP-certified U.S. institution
Show proof of financial support to cover tuition and living expenses
Demonstrate nonimmigrant intent (you plan to return to your home country after studies)
Maintain full-time enrollment in a valid academic program
Have a valid passport and attend a U.S. embassy or consulate interview
We help you prepare for every step — including application forms, document review, and interview preparation.
Student Visas
How We Help With Student Visas
Our firm helps with:
F-1 Student Visa applications and renewals
School transfers and maintaining visa status
Visa interview preparation to avoid denials
Guidance on work authorization (OPT, STEM OPT, CPT)
Change of status (e.g., from visitor visa to student visa)
Post-graduation planning (work visas, green cards, or advanced study)
Student Visas
Stay In Status
Many students fall out of status because they:
Accidentally drop below full-time enrollment
Take unauthorized work
Miss deadlines for extensions or updates
Get bad advice from unofficial sources
Falling out of status can mean:
❌ Losing your visa
❌ Getting deported
❌ Losing your ability to return in the future
We help prevent these mistakes by offering ongoing support and legal guidance as you progress through your education.
Student Visas
Looking To Stay After You Graduate?
Graduation doesn’t have to mean goodbye. We help students explore post-education immigration options such as:
OPT (Optional Practical Training) and STEM OPT Extensions
H-1B work visas
Employer sponsorship for green cards
Family-based petitions (if you marry a U.S. citizen)
Change of status from student to other eligible visa types
We’re here to help you go from student to professional — safely, legally, and strategically.
Fix Your Immigration status!
It makes a difference when you get the help you need from someone who not only understands the process, but who understands you and your unique situation. As a proud immigrant myself, I know exactly how you feel because I have personally gone through the whole immigration process.
See what my clients have to say:
Contact Us to start
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an F-1 Student Visa, and who qualifies for it?
The F-1 visa is for international students enrolling in full-time academic programs in the U.S. To qualify, applicants must:
Be accepted into a SEVP-approved school (e.g., university, college, high school, language school).
Prove sufficient financial support.
Demonstrate ties to their home country and intent to return after studies.
Maintain a full course load and good academic standing.
Once accepted by a school, you’ll receive a Form I-20 to begin your visa application at a U.S. embassy or consulate.
Can I work in the U.S. on an F-1 visa?
F-1 visa holders have limited work authorization:
On-campus work: Up to 20 hours per week during the semester.
Off-campus training: Through CPT (Curricular Practical Training) or OPT (Optional Practical Training), typically after one academic year.
OPT allows you to work in your field of study for up to 12 months post-graduation (or up to 36 months for STEM degrees). Unauthorized work can result in visa termination.
What happens if I fall out of status on my F-1 visa?
Falling out of status—due to dropping below a full course load, working illegally, or failing to maintain academic progress—can have serious consequences. You may lose your right to remain in the U.S. or face future visa denials. If you’ve fallen out of status, it’s possible to file for reinstatement, but timing and eligibility are key. Work with an immigration attorney to respond quickly.
Can I bring my spouse or children with me?
Yes. F-1 students can bring their spouse and unmarried children under 21 on F-2 dependent visas. However, F-2 spouses are not allowed to work, and children may only attend elementary or secondary school. Each dependent must apply for their own visa using the F-1 student’s Form I-20.
Can I change my visa status while studying in the U.S.?
Yes. Students may apply to change to another nonimmigrant status (like H-1B for work or B-2 for tourism) or adjust to permanent residency in certain cases (e.g., marriage to a U.S. citizen). Changes must be carefully timed and filed before your current status expires. An attorney can help guide this transitio
Immigration Law Office in Lubbock, TX