Really confused-when can I apply for H4-F1 change of visa status?? Help!!!

M

Marianne

Registered Users (C)
You know guys, I am really angry at those, who sit in the International Students Offices, pretending they know the laws, and in reality know nothing at all!!! :mad:
I am planning on changing my visa status from H4 to F1. I am familiar with the procedures and everything, however today I was surprised by one of the "knowledgeable" advisors, who told me that supposedly I can not apply to INS for change of visa status before 30 days prior to the beginning of the semester. Then she stopped and added that it actually might be 90 days prior to the beginning of the semester. Her colleague mentioned it does not matter and the sooner I apply-the better. But altogether they told me they don't know for sure and nobody can tell me!!!!! :mad: :confused:

It is impossible, and I think there must be some rules regarding this issue.
Please, please, anybody who had real experience, tell me -does it matter when exactly you file for the petition to change H-4 to F-1 status? If it matters, what is the time frame for filing a petition-90 day before the semester starts, 30 days or anything else.
I would greatly appreciate any input.
 
H4-f1

once you receive your I-20 you should be able to apply for it. when have you received your admission for? if it's fall 2005 apply for it right away. make sure you send your documents to the right USCIS service center.
 
phoenixdesi said:
once you receive your I-20 you should be able to apply for it. when have you received your admission for? if it's fall 2005 apply for it right away. make sure you send your documents to the right USCIS service center.
Click to expand...

Phoenixdesi, thanks for reply a lot.Yes, I got accepted for Fall 2005 and I thought the sooner I apply the better.Have you heard that an application for change of status to F1 got denied because person filed it earlier then 30 days? This is really bothering me.I am going to file to Vermont service center.
 
30 days rule applies to F-1 VISAS, not change of status. That means that first time F-1 students may enter the US within 30 days of the start of the semester, and not a day earlier.
As for your change of status, apply as early as you can, it may take 3-4 months.
 
Vermont processing time

You're in luck! It isn't too late for you to apply for change of status to F1 from Vermont. They're currently processing I-539 applications received on April 23, 2005. So even if you send yours now, you should get your F1 well in time for the Fall session. Make sure you have all the requisite documents before sending them out. Visit the uscis website at uscis.gov for instructions on how to assemble an application. Good Luck!
 
Guys, thanks a mil!!! Now I know what to say to those "professionals". Thanks for your help again.
 
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