Change Your Status, Change Your Life!
Stay legal in USA getting visa status transferred to Students/ Business/ Work-Permit/ Asylum/ Investors/ Partnership & Franchise.
Why Change of Visa Status?
- Students: Pursue education with work authorization options like CPT/OPT and Startup.
- Business Professionals: Manage or grow your business in the U.S.
- Work-Permit Seekers: Access career-specific opportunities.
- Asylum Seekers: Ensure legal stability and a secure future.
- Investors: Obtain visas to invest in U.S. businesses.
- Partnership & Franchise Owners: Start or run businesses with appropriate visas.
What’s in It for You?
Avoid Deportation
Secure Your Stay: Expert Solutions to Avoid Deportation and Maintain Legal Status
Career Growth
Open doors to employment opportunities and advance your professional journey.
Green Card Roadmap
Personalized Roadmap to a U.S. Green Card: Step-by-Step Guidance for a Smooth Journey
Smooth Transition
Switching your visa status can be a daunting process, but with the right guidance, it becomes much simpler.
How We Make It Easy for You
Free Initial Consultation
Checklist and Documentation
Accurate Form Filing
USCIS Updates and Follow-Up
Approval Guidance
Work During Studies: CPT/OPT
Gain valuable experience and earn while studying with CPT and OPT programs!
What is CPT?
Curricular Practical Training (CPT) allows F-1 students to engage in work related to their academic curriculum. It provides valuable hands-on experience, often in the form of internships or cooperative education opportunities.
- Eligibility: Must have been enrolled full-time for at least one academic year.
- Work Type: Part-time (20 hours/week) during the semester and full-time during breaks.
What is OPT?
Optional Practical Training (OPT) is a work authorization that allows F-1 students to gain professional experience in their field of study after graduation. This can be a key step toward building your career in the U.S.
- Eligibility: Must have completed at least one academic year of full-time study in the U.S.
- Work Type: Full-time work related to your field of study.
- OPT STEM Extension: Eligible for an additional 24 months if you have a STEM degree.
Got Questions? We’ve Got Answers!
How long does it take to process a Change of Status application?
Processing times can vary depending on the type of change you're requesting and the current workload of U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). It's advisable to check the USCIS Processing Times page for the most current information.
Can I work while my Change of Status application is pending?
Generally, you are not authorized to work in the U.S. while your Change of Status application is pending unless your current nonimmigrant status permits employment. Engaging in unauthorized employment can jeopardize your application.
What is the difference between Curricular Practical Training (CPT) and Optional Practical Training (OPT)?
CPT is employment that is an integral part of an established curriculum, such as internships or cooperative education, and must be completed before graduation. OPT, on the other hand, allows students to gain practical experience in their field of study and can be utilized both before and after completing a degree program.
Can I travel outside the U.S. while my Change of Status application is pending?
Traveling outside the U.S. while your application is pending is generally not recommended, as it may be considered an abandonment of your application. It's best to remain in the U.S. until a decision is made.
Do I need an attorney to file for a Change of Status?
While it's not mandatory to have an attorney, navigating the Change of Status process can be complex. Seeking assistance from a qualified immigration attorney or an accredited representative can help ensure that your application is completed accurately and increases the likelihood of approval.
What documents are required for a Change of Status application?
Required documents typically include Form I-539, Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status, a copy of your Form I-94, Arrival/Departure Record, a valid passport, evidence of financial support, and any other documents specific to your current and requested status. It's important to review the specific requirements for your situation on the USCIS website.
Can I apply for scholarships after changing my visa status?
Eligibility for scholarships depends on the specific terms set by the scholarship providers and your new visa status. Some scholarships are open to international students, while others may require U.S. citizenship or permanent residency. It's important to review the eligibility criteria for each scholarship individually.
How do I know if I qualify for a Change of Status?
To qualify for a Change of Status, you must have been lawfully admitted to the U.S. with a nonimmigrant visa, your current status must be valid, you must not have violated the conditions of your status, and you must not have committed any actions that would make you ineligible. Specific eligibility criteria can be found on the USCIS website.
What happens if my Change of Status application is denied?
If your application is denied, you will be expected to depart the U.S. immediately upon the expiration of your current status. Remaining in the U.S. without a valid status can lead to removal proceedings and may affect your ability to return in the future. It's advisable to consult with an immigration attorney to explore any available options.