Immigration Questions & Answers

How does reinstatement affect my future F-1 visa benefits, like OPT? A: Approval of your reinstatement restores your F-1 status as if you never fell out of status. You may still be eligible for OPT and other F-1… Read More

Can I study while USCIS processes my reinstatement? A: Yes, you can continue studying full-time while USCIS processes your reinstatement application. However, you cannot work on-campus or in practical training until USCIS approves your reinstatement. Read More

What happens if my reinstatement request is denied? A: If USCIS denies your reinstatement request, you must leave the U.S. immediately. You can sometimes regain F-1 status by leaving the U.S. and re-entering with a new I-20. However,… Read More

 Can I travel outside the U.S. while my reinstatement application is pending? A: No, you can't travel outside the U.S. while your reinstatement application is pending. Leaving the U.S. will abandon your application, and you’ll likely need a… Read More

What documents do I need to include with my reinstatement application?  A: Falling 'Out of Status' means you’ve broken F-1 visa rules, such as failing to stay enrolled full-time, working without authorization, or missing essential reporting requirements. Being… Read More

How do I apply for reinstatement?  A: Out of status" means you've broken F-1 visa rules. This could happen by not staying enrolled full-time, working without authorization, or missing reporting requirements. Falling out of status can impact your… Read More

Am I eligible for reinstatement of F-1 status?  A: You may be eligible for reinstatement if you meet the following conditions:1. You have been out of status for at most five months.2. The violation was due to circumstances… Read More

What is reinstatement of F-1 status? A: Reinstatement is regaining legal F-1 visa status after falling out of status. To reinstate, you must apply with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and provide evidence that your violation was… Read More

What does falling "out of status" mean on an F-1 visa?  A: Out of status" means you've broken F-1 visa rules. This could happen by not staying enrolled full-time, working without authorization, or missing reporting requirements. Falling out… Read More

Do family members share the same A-Number? A: Each individual receives a unique A-Number. Each family member, even on the same immigration petition, has a unique A-Number to track their individual immigration records. Read More