Legal Question in Immigration Law in California

Change from Visitor visa to Student Visa

Hi,

I used to work on an H1B visa, but left the country for personal reasons.

I came back with a tourist visa to finish off many things I had left undone (from bank accounts to furniture to simple traveling).

However, I had applied for a Master's degree and got accepted. I didn't indicate upon entering the country that I intended to become a student (I just found out I should have done that).

Now I'd like to know if it's possible to stay here and transfer the visa. My tourist visa expires in July and I'd rather not go home. I've read obth- that I have to go home and also that if I do go home I might not be let back in- even with a student visa.

Thanks for your help!


Asked on 5/29/03, 7:37 am

2 Answers from Attorneys
Larry L. Doan Law Office of Larry L. Doan

Re: Change from Visitor visa to Student Visa

I think your fear is not warranted. If you haven't violated your visa status previously and will not overstay on this tourist visa, you should be able to receive the F-1 in your home country if you have a genuine Master's study program here, and satisfy all other requirements of a student visa. Thus, the best course to take is to return home and apply for the F-1.

Liem Doan, Esq.

Note: The above response is provided for legal information only and is not legal advice. Such advice can only be rendered after an

attorney-client relationship has been expressly established.

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Answered on 5/29/03, 3:54 pm
Amy Ghosh Law Offices of Amy Ghosh

Re: Change from Visitor visa to Student Visa

if you came here more than 60 days ago...your status may be changed...worst come worst...go back to your country and get a tourist visa from there. But atleast try once over here!!

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Answered on 5/29/03, 8:57 pm


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