F-1 Student Visa Attorney in Chicago
The F-1 student visa is the most common visa for international students attending U.S. colleges, universities, and language programs. At Liberum Law, our F-1 visa attorneys in Chicago assist students with initial visa applications, maintaining status, employment authorization, and transitioning to post-graduation work visas.
F-1 visa holders must maintain full-time enrollment, limit off-campus employment to authorized categories (CPT, OPT, economic hardship), report changes of address and school transfers to USCIS, and maintain valid I-20 documentation. Violations can result in loss of status and potential removal from the United States.
Our F-1 services include initial visa application and consular interview preparation, school transfer processing, CPT and OPT applications, STEM OPT 24-month extension applications, reinstatement for students who have fallen out of status, and H-1B cap-gap extensions for students transitioning to work visas.
Contact our F-1 visa attorneys at Liberum Law for a free consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get an F-1 student visa?
Get accepted to a SEVP-approved U.S. school, receive Form I-20, pay the SEVIS fee, complete Form DS-160, schedule a visa interview at a U.S. consulate, and demonstrate sufficient funds, intent to return home, and ties to your home country. Most refusals are based on inadequate ties or funds.
Can F-1 students work off-campus?
Limited circumstances: CPT (curricular practical training, tied to academic program), OPT (post-graduation, 12 months + 24 STEM extension), severe economic hardship work authorization, and certain international organization positions. Unauthorized off-campus work violates status.
What is SEVIS and the SEVIS fee?
SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System) is the federal database tracking F-1 (and M-1, J-1) students. The SEVIS I-901 fee ($350 for F-1/M-1) must be paid before applying for the visa. Schools update SEVIS with your enrollment status and any changes.
What happens if I lose F-1 status?
Common reasons: dropping below full-time enrollment, unauthorized employment, failing to maintain academic progress. Consequences range from reinstatement (filed with USCIS) to departure and re-entry. Severe violations may bar future U.S. visas. Contact us immediately if you fall out of status.
Can F-1 students get green cards in the U.S.?
Yes — common paths include H-1B → EB-2/EB-3 employment sponsorship, EB-2 NIW (advanced degree + national interest), O-1 → EB-1A for high-achievers, family-based options (marriage), or transitioning through dual-intent visas. Planning the transition starts during studies, not after graduation.
