Services for Students & Exchange Visitors

Our Services Include:

- F‑1 Student Visa Applications & Change of Status
- J‑1 Exchange Visitor & Internship Programs
- M‑1 Vocational Student Visa Support
- OPT & STEM OPT Employment Authorization
- Cap‑Gap and H‑1B Transition Guidance
- SEVIS & I‑20 Compliance Counseling

💡 Start your U.S. study journey the right way.

Student & Exchange Visitor Immigration Services

Helping you move from where you are to where you want to be — legally, confidently, and with expert support. Our services are designed to simplify the U.S. immigration process for students and make your academic journey worry-free.


Who We Help:

  • International students in the U.S. on visitor visas (B-1/B-2) who want to switch to F-1
  • Prospective F-1 visa applicants starting U.S. degree or language programs
  • Students nearing graduation and preparing for OPT or STEM OPT
  • F-1 students planning to apply for H-1B or transition via Cap-Gap protection

Our Core Services:

  • F-1 Change of Status Filings (I-539): Full legal support to help you change from B-2 or other visa status to F-1. Includes attorney-drafted cover letter, document checklist, and filing assistance.
  • OPT & STEM OPT Applications: Guidance on timelines, USCIS forms, required documentation, and how to avoid costly mistakes that may trigger RFEs (Requests for Evidence).
  • Cap-Gap & H-1B Bridge: Legal strategies to help you maintain status while transitioning to employment. We explain Cap-Gap eligibility and offer guidance on preparing for H-1B filings.
Note: At this time, we do not handle J-1 Exchange Visitor, M-1 Vocational Visa, or SEVIS compliance for schools. We focus exclusively on individual student matters under the F-1 visa category.

Sample Success Stories

  • Ali: Entered the U.S. on a tourist visa and was admitted to a graduate program. We helped him change status to F-1, avoid gaps, and comply with timing rules.
  • Jenny: STEM graduate who faced employer documentation issues. With our help, she filed her STEM OPT on time and avoided RFE delays.
  • Carlos: Senior student who was selected in the H-1B lottery. We assisted with his Cap-Gap extension to maintain legal status until H-1B approval.

What’s Included in Your Free 15-Minute Consultation

  • Status Review: We help you understand your current visa or pending application situation.
  • Personalized Pathway: Discussion of your study/employment goals and matching visa options.
  • Key Do’s & Don’ts: Tips to avoid the most common errors in student filings.
  • Timeline Insights: When to file, how long it takes, and what to expect.
  • Clarity, Not Pressure: No obligation to hire — the session helps you decide your next step.

Top Questions Students Ask

  • "Can I apply for F-1 from inside the U.S. or do I need to leave?"
    In many cases, yes — it is possible to apply for a change of status from within the U.S. using Form I-539 without needing to travel abroad.
  • "What if I already overstayed or my visitor visa is expiring?"
    You may still be eligible to change status depending on the timing and details. It’s important to act quickly and seek legal advice to avoid complications.
  • "Can I work on OPT or wait for approval before working?"
    You can only begin working after your OPT has been approved and you receive your Employment Authorization Document (EAD).
  • "My college says I need to file — but I’m not sure what that means. Can you help?"
    Yes, we can help you understand and complete your application, including Forms I-765, I-539, or other USCIS forms your college may reference.
  • "I’m in STEM — what are my options after graduation besides OPT?"
    Options may include STEM OPT extension, H-1B sponsorship, or longer-term pathways like PERM and employment-based green cards.

✔ Trusted Immigration Support for F-1 Students
✔ Virtual Nationwide Legal Services
✔ Transparent Fees • No Hidden Costs

Licensed in Connecticut
Virtual Immigration Law Firm
Serving Clients Nationwide