Orlando Student Visa Attorney

Assisting Clients With Student Visa Matters in Florida

Pursuing education in the United States opens doors to exceptional opportunities, and for many international students, obtaining a student visa is the first step in making this dream a reality. Navigating the U.S. immigration system can be challenging, particularly when dealing with the rules, regulations, and processes surrounding student visas. Our Orlando student visas lawyer at Maney | Gordon | Zeller, P.A., is here to guide you through each stage of the application process, providing skilled support to help you achieve your academic goals in the U.S.

Call Maney | Gordon | Zeller, P.A. today at (407) 630-8455 or contact us online to schedule a consultation with our student visa lawyer in Orlando.

What are the Requirements for a Student Visa?

Obtaining a student visa involves meeting specific eligibility requirements and understanding the distinctions between different types of visas for international students. The two primary categories of student visas are the F-1 visa and the M-1 visa, each with its own requirements and applications.

• Enrollment in a Qualified School: To be eligible for a student visa, you must be accepted into a U.S. institution that is certified by the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP). This program approves schools that offer full-time academic programs or vocational studies for international students. Colleges, universities, language training programs, and vocational schools can all qualify, but it is essential that the institution you choose is SEVP-certified before applying.
• Full-Time Study Requirement: Student visa applicants must intend to study full-time. The F-1 visa is generally for students enrolled in academic or language programs, while the M-1 visa is tailored to vocational or non-academic programs. Full-time study means taking a full course load each academic term as defined by your school. Part-time enrollment is not usually allowed on a student visa, except in specific cases that may require additional authorization from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
• Financial Support Evidence: U.S. immigration law requires student visa applicants to show proof of financial stability to support themselves during their studies. This includes covering tuition, living expenses, and other costs without requiring employment within the United States (with certain limited exceptions for on-campus or authorized work). Bank statements, sponsor letters, or affidavits of support are often required to demonstrate sufficient funding.
• Proficiency in English: Applicants must demonstrate English proficiency if their program is in English. Many schools require international students to submit standardized test scores, such as TOEFL or IELTS, as part of the admissions process. However, if your intended program is taught in your native language, English proficiency may not be required.
• Intent to Return Home: Student visas are non-immigrant visas, which means they are temporary and are issued to those intending to return to their home country after completing their studies. During your visa interview, the consular officer may ask about your plans after graduation, and you may need to demonstrate ties to your home country, such as family, property, or employment opportunities, to establish your intent to return.

How Our Student Visa Lawyer Can Help You

Here’s how we can help:

• Application Guidance and Preparation: We will work with you to prepare a thorough and accurate visa application, guiding you through each required document and form. We can assist with collecting financial documentation, ensuring your SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System) records are accurate, and advising you on how to present proof of intent to return to your home country.
• Interview Preparation: The visa interview is an essential step in the process, and we provide interview preparation services to help you present yourself confidently and accurately to the consular officer. We will coach you on common questions and review your documents to help anticipate and address any potential concerns.
• Support for Special Circumstances: If you encounter unique situations, such as previous visa denials, issues with SEVP certification, or if you are pursuing an extension or change of status, our attorney can advise on the best course of action. We are experienced in handling complications and can help resolve issues that may arise before or during the visa application process.
• Assistance with Optional Practical Training (OPT) and Other Benefits: Many F-1 visa holders are eligible for Optional Practical Training (OPT), which allows students to work in the U.S. for a certain period after graduation. We can assist with the OPT application, including preparing and filing the necessary paperwork to ensure timely processing.

Contact Our Student Visa Lawyer in Orlando Today

Securing a student visa is essential for beginning your educational journey in the United States, and the process can be overwhelming without qualified assistance. With the help of our Orlando student visas attorney, you can move forward confidently, knowing that every aspect of your application is in capable hands. Maney | Gordon | Zeller, P.A., is committed to helping international students reach their academic and professional goals in the U.S. through reliable, professional legal support. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward your academic future in the United States.

Contact Maney | Gordon | Zeller, P.A. today to get started with our Orlando student visa attorney.