U.S. Student Visa Legal Rights and Responsibilities

1. What are the basic rights and responsibilities of a student visa holder?


The basic rights and responsibilities of a student visa holder include the right to study in Australia in an approved course at an approved education provider, the right to work for up to 40 hours per fortnight while studying and up to 40 hours per week during holidays, the responsibility to maintain a satisfactory academic record, the responsibility to maintain health insurance cover, and the responsibility to comply with visa conditions and Australian laws.

2. Are there any restrictions on how many hours per week a student visa holder can work?


Yes, international students in the United States on F-1 visas are generally restricted to working no more than 20 hours per week while school is in session. During vacation periods, they may work full-time (40 hours per week). Additionally, international students are not allowed to work off-campus without prior authorization from the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

3. How long is a student visa valid for?


A student visa is typically valid for the duration of the student’s studies. Depending on the country, it might be valid for one year or multiple years, and can sometimes be extended if needed.

4. What is the minimum age for an international student to get a student visa?


The minimum age for an international student to get a student visa is 18 years old.

5. Are there any special programs available for international students to help finance their education in the United States?


Yes, there are special programs available for international students to help finance their education in the United States. These programs include scholarships, grants, and loans from the U.S. government, international organizations, and private organizations. Additionally, some universities and colleges offer financial aid packages specifically for international students. It is also possible for international students to work part-time in the United States during their studies.

6. Can international students register to vote in U.S. elections?


No, international students are not eligible to register to vote in U.S. elections. The right to vote is reserved for U.S. citizens.

7. What is the process for renewing or extending a student visa?


The process for renewing or extending a student visa depends on the particular visa and the country you are studying in. Generally, the process requires you to fill out an application form, provide evidence of your continued enrollment in an educational institution, and pay the applicable fee. You may also need to demonstrate that you have sufficient funds to support yourself during your stay in the country. If approved, you will receive an updated visa that allows you to continue your studies.

8. Are international students allowed to travel outside of the United States while on a student visa?


International students are generally allowed to travel outside of the United States while on a student visa, as long as they are in valid F, M, or J status and have a valid I-20 or DS-2019 form. However, students must obtain prior approval from their Designated School Official (DSO) before traveling and carry all the necessary documents for re-entry into the U.S. (valid passport, visa, I-20/DS-2019).

9. What documents are required to apply for a student visa?


To apply for a student visa, you may need to provide the following documents:

– Proof of acceptance from an educational institution.
– Financial documents, such as a bank statement or other evidence of financial resources.
– Passport with valid travel document and visa.
– Proof of accommodation.
– Statement of purpose.
– Evidence of English language proficiency, such as a TOEFL or IELTS score.
– Evidence of academic qualifications and/or CVs.

10. Are international students allowed to work off-campus while on a student visa?


Yes, international students are allowed to work off-campus while on a student visa. However, they are limited to 20 hours of work per week during the academic year and full-time during breaks. Additionally, they must obtain permission from their school’s Designated School Official and from USCIS before they begin working.

11. Are there any restrictions on the type of job a student visa holder can take?


Yes, student visa holders are not allowed to take jobs in certain industries. Generally, student visa holders can only take jobs on campus or off campus that relate to their field of study. They are also typically limited to working no more than 20 hours per week.

12. Are international students required to maintain a certain minimum grade point average while on a student visa?


Yes, international students in the United States must maintain a certain minimum grade point average (GPA) while on a student visa. The exact GPA requirement may vary depending on the visa type and university that the student is attending. Generally, international students are expected to maintain a GPA of 2.0 or higher.

13. What are the penalties for violating the terms of a student visa?


The penalties for violating the terms of a student visa vary depending on the specific violation. Generally speaking, students can be subject to deportation, barred from re-entering the United States for a certain period of time, and/or fined. Additionally, some student visa violations may lead to criminal charges.

14. Is it possible for an international student to change schools or transfer while on a student visa?


Yes, it is possible for an international student to change schools or transfer while on a student visa. However, the student must follow U.S. immigration regulations and obtain approval for the transfer from the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services before any change can be made to the student’s visa status. To do this, the student must submit a Transfer Verification Form and other documents to the new school’s Designated School Official (DSO), who will then submit the information to the USCIS for approval.

15. Can an international student pursue an internship while on a student visa?


Yes, an international student can pursue an internship while on a student visa. However, the internships must be related to their field of study and must be authorized by the school’s Designated School Official (DSO). Additionally, some restrictions may apply to the type and duration of internship that can be pursued, so it is important for international students to check with their DSO before starting an internship.

16. Is proof of health insurance required for an international student with a student visa?


Yes, proof of health insurance is required for an international student with a student visa. International students are generally required to maintain health insurance coverage throughout their stay in the U.S. and must demonstrate that they have adequate coverage before being allowed to register for classes.

17. How does an international student obtain permission to travel outside of the United States temporarily while on a student visa?


An international student on a student visa must obtain a travel signature from a Designated School Official (DSO) to be eligible for re-entry into the United States. This signature must be obtained prior to traveling outside of the United States. The student will need to provide information regarding the purpose of their travel and anticipated duration of time spent abroad. Once approved, the student will be issued a new I-20 form with an approved travel signature.

18. Can an international student with a student visa apply for permanent residency in the United States?


Yes, in some cases, an international student with a student visa may be eligible to apply for permanent residency in the United States. However, each individual’s situation is unique and specific eligibility requirements must be met. International students should contact an immigration lawyer for assistance in determining their eligibility.

19. Does an international student need to update any information with immigration services if they change their address or phone number while on a student visa?


Yes, international students need to update their address or phone number with immigration services if they change it while on a student visa. Failing to do so could result in serious penalties or other consequences.

20. Can an international student change their degree program or major while on a student visa?


Yes, international students can change their degree program or major while on a student visa. However, the student must notify their designated school official (DSO) in SEVIS and obtain their approval prior to making any changes. The DSO must also issue a new Form I-20 documenting the change in educational level. Failure to obtain approval may result in a violation of status.