What Should You Do If You Lose Your F1 Visa Status?

Overcoming Challenges in Online Learning – Maintaining F1 Visa Status

After several semesters of online learning filled with new experiences, challenges, and difficulties, both Vietnamese and international students faced numerous obstacles. The lack of interaction and connection between teachers and students created significant challenges, affecting academic performance. Unfortunately, many students had their I-20 revoked, lost their F1 visa status, and became undocumented while still studying in the U.S.

So, what should students do if they find themselves in this situation?

1. Why is an I-20 Revoked While Still Studying in the U.S.?

Some common reasons include:

• Not enrolling in enough credits as required by F1 visa regulations
• Exceeding the allowed number of absences or not meeting minimum attendance requirements
• Failing too many courses or not achieving the minimum grade requirements
• Late tuition payments without arranging an extension
• Violating school or government regulations

2. What Should Students Do if Their I-20 is Revoked or at Risk?

Consult with the school’s advisor immediately to find the best solution based on your situation.
If you anticipate I-20 revocation, transfer to a new school and obtain a new I-20 before losing your status. This process may take 2-4 weeks for approval, so act quickly.
If your I-20 has already been revoked, apply for a new I-20 immediately. This will result in a new SEVIS ID, allowing you to begin the process of restoring your visa status.

3. How to Restore F1 Visa Status

If your visa is still valid, the process is simpler. Leave the U.S., pay the $350 SEVIS fee for the new I-20, and re-enter the U.S. to restore your visa status.
Note that entry to the U.S. must be no earlier than 30 days before the start date on your I-20.

If your visa has expired, you have two options:

• Return to Vietnam, reapply for admission, and attend a new visa interview
• Apply for reinstatement while staying in the U.S.

4. Conditions for Visa Reinstatement

No prior violations of F1 visa regulations or U.S. immigration laws
Out of status for less than 5 months. If exceeding 5 months, you must explain why reinstatement was not possible earlier
You must have been accepted by a school and issued a reinstatement I-20

5. Reinstatement Application Requirements

To ensure a smooth reinstatement process, contact OSI Vietnam for detailed guidance and support throughout the application.

6. Contact for Consultation

OSI VIETNAM EDUCATION CONSULTING COMPANY

Address: 44 Tan Canh, Ward 1, Tan Binh District, Ho Chi Minh City
Phone: 0937.735.258 - 0937.735.259
Email: osiedu@gmail.com / osiedu5@gmail.com