STUDENT VISAS: STUDYING IN THE U.S.
The F-1 visa is a nonimmigrant visa for students who plan to study in the U.S. at a SEVP-approved school. It covers academic programs (like university degrees) and language training.
Whether you’re dreaming of studying in the U.S. or already navigating student life here, the F-1 visa is your starting point. At Burgos Law, we help international students understand, maintain, and protect their F-1 status—from applying to school, to seeking reinstatement, to planning life after graduation.
We understand that every student’s journey is different. Maybe you’re facing unexpected travel, a lapse in status, or wondering what your options are after OPT. That’s where we come in.
Real Help for Real Students
Immigration shouldn’t be a guessing game—especially when your education and future are on the line. Whether you’re just starting your F-1 journey or handling a complicated issue, we take a personalized and strategic approach.
- Book a 1-on-1 strategy session to get clear next steps and a tailored plan
- Stay connected with updates and Q&A opportunities
WHO WE Help
We support students across the U.S. and globally with:
- Applying for an F-1 visa or a change of status
- Understanding SEVIS and maintaining F-1 status
- F-1 reinstatement after falling out of status
- OPT and STEM OPT applications
- Travel guidance and visa renewals
- Complex cases (status violations, SEVIS corrections, school transfers, work issues)
- Planning for H-1B, green cards, or long-term U.S. goals
FROM STUDENT TO SKILLED WORKER: PLANNING YOUR Next Steps
If you’re studying in the U.S. on an F-1 visa, it’s never too early to start planning your path to a work visa—even if graduation feels far away. Understanding your long-term options now can help you make smart decisions about internships, job offers, and visa timing.
At Burgos Law, we work with international students who want to transition from F-1 status to employment-based visas
Why You Should Start Early
- H-1B visas have strict filing windows
Planning ahead increases your chances of success in the lottery or finding alternatives if you’re not selected. - Employer sponsorship can take time
Companies may not be familiar with the process—it helps to have an immigration attorney guide both you and your employer. - Your OPT/STEM OPT is limited
Once OPT ends, so does your work authorization unless you’ve secured another visa status. - Back-up plans matter
If the H-1B lottery doesn’t work out, you may still qualify for other options like E-2, O-1, TN, R-1, or even a second degree with CPT.
FAQs
Can I work while on an F-1 visa?
Yes, but only under certain conditions. On-campus work is allowed up to 20 hours/week during the semester. Off-campus work (like CPT or OPT) must be authorized in advance by your DSO and/or USCIS.
What happens if I fall out of status?
You may be eligible to apply for F-1 reinstatement, but timing is critical. We can help assess your case and guide you through the reinstatement process or explore other legal options.
Can I travel internationally on an F-1 visa?
Yes—but you must have a valid F-1 visa stamp, a recent travel signature on your I-20, and meet reentry requirements. Travel while a reinstatement or change of status is pending can be risky—get legal advice first.
What is STEM OPT?
If you earned a degree in a STEM field, you may qualify for a 24-month extension of your OPT work authorization—giving you up to 3 years of U.S. work experience.
What if my F-1 visa expires while I’m in the U.S.?
That’s okay. Your visa is only for entry into the U.S. As long as you maintain valid F-1 status and don’t leave the U.S., you can stay. But if you travel, you’ll need a new visa stamp to re-enter.
Can I change to another visa after my F-1?
Absolutely. Many students transition to H-1B, O-1, or even E-2 investor visas depending on their goals. We can help build a long-term immigration strategy based on your career and plans.
I’m having issues with my DSO or school—can you help?
Yes. We work with students who’ve faced miscommunications, delays, or even wrongful terminations of their SEVIS records. We’ll review the situation and advocate for your rights.