Orlando F-1 Visa Attorney

If you are planning to pursue an academic program or English language training in the United States, obtaining an F-1 student visa is a necessary step. Our Orlando F-1 visa lawyer at Maney | Gordon | Zeller, P.A. assists students and their families throughout the visa process—from confirming eligibility and preparing documentation to navigating consular interviews and maintaining status while studying in the U.S.

Whether you are applying for the first time, seeking an extension, transferring schools, or dealing with complications such as status violations, our immigration team is here to provide clear guidance and reliable representation.

Contact Maney | Gordon | Zeller, P.A. today at (407) 630-8455 to speak with an F1 visa attorney in Orlando.

What is an F-1 Visa?

The F-1 visa is a nonimmigrant student visa that allows foreign nationals to pursue full-time academic studies in the United States. Students with an F-1 visa may attend:

• Colleges and universities
• High schools
• Private elementary schools (certain types)
• Conservatories and seminaries
• Approved language training programs
• Other accredited academic institutions

To obtain an F-1 visa, the student must enroll in a Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP)-certified school and maintain full-time student status throughout their academic program.

F-1 students may also be eligible for specific employment opportunities, such as:

• On-campus employment
• Curricular Practical Training (CPT)
• Optional Practical Training (OPT)
• STEM OPT extension (for qualifying degrees)

Eligibility for an F-1 Visa

To qualify for an F-1 student visa, an applicant must meet specific eligibility criteria, including:

Acceptance to a SEVP-Certified School

You must first receive a Form I-20 from a U.S. academic institution authorized by the Department of Homeland Security to enroll international students.

English Language Proficiency

Students must demonstrate sufficient English proficiency or be enrolled in courses that will lead to proficiency.

Financial Capability

Applicants must prove that they can pay for:

• Tuition
• Living expenses
• Books and school supplies
• Transportation and other costs

This may require bank statements, affidavits of support, scholarship letters, or other financial documents.

Nonimmigrant Intent

You must show that you intend to return to your home country after completing your studies. This typically involves demonstrating ties such as:

• Family relationships
• Employment offers
• Property ownership
• Future career plans

Because demonstrating nonimmigrant intent can be challenging, working with a qualified F-1 visa attorney can make the process smoother and more successful.

How to Get an F-1 Visa

Applying for an F-1 visa involves several steps. Maney | Gordon | Zeller, P.A. guides clients through each stage to reduce the risk of delays or denials.

1. Apply and Get Accepted to a SEVP-Certified School

Once accepted, the school issues your Form I-20, which includes your SEVIS ID number and program information.

2. Pay the SEVIS I-901 Fee

This fee is required before scheduling the visa interview. A receipt is necessary for your application.

3. Complete the DS-160 Online Application

This is the primary nonimmigrant visa application form. Ensuring accurate, consistent information is essential.

4. Schedule Your Visa Interview

Interviews are typically held at a U.S. embassy or consulate in your home country. Processing times may vary.

5. Prepare Documentation

Commonly required documents include:

• Valid passport
• Form I-20
• DS-160 confirmation page
• SEVIS fee receipt
• Academic transcripts
• English proficiency scores (TOEFL, IELTS, etc.)
• Financial documentation
• Evidence of ties to your home country

6. Attend the Visa Interview

The consular officer may ask about your study plans, financial ability, and post-graduation intentions. Our Orlando F-1 visa lawyer can help you prepare.

7. Enter the U.S. and Maintain F-1 Status

Once approved, you can enter the U.S. up to 30 days before the program start date.

After arriving, you must:

• Remain enrolled full-time
• Avoid unauthorized employment
• Update your school about address changes
• Follow all immigration requirements

Our firm also assists with OPT applications, reinstatement of status, school transfers, and extensions.

F-1 Visa FAQs

How long can I stay in the U.S. on an F-1 visa?

You may stay for the duration of your academic program, including authorized practical training, as long as you maintain lawful status.

Can I work while studying?

F-1 students may work on campus and may qualify for CPT or OPT with authorization.

Can I bring my spouse or children?

Yes, dependents may enter the U.S. using an F-2 visa.

Can I change schools after arriving?

Yes, F-1 students may transfer schools with proper SEVIS procedures and approval.

What if I fall out of status?

You may be eligible for reinstatement. An immigration attorney can help evaluate your options.

Can an F-1 visa lead to a green card?

While the F-1 visa itself is nonimmigrant, many students later pursue employment-based visas or other immigration pathways.

Speak With an Experienced Orlando F-1 Visa Lawyer

International students face unique challenges when applying for and maintaining F-1 visa status. Maney | Gordon | Zeller, P.A. provides experienced and supportive legal representation for students pursuing educational opportunities in Orlando and throughout the United States.

Whether you need help applying for your student visa, preparing for your interview, maintaining compliance, or navigating employment authorization, our team is here to guide you every step of the way.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation with a trusted Orlando F-1 visa lawyer.