If you’re looking to change your visa status from B2 to F1, you may be wondering how long the process will take. In this guide, we’ll take a look at the steps you need to take to change your visa status, the required documents and forms, and how long you can expect to wait for your new status to be approved.

Key takeaways:

• Changing your visa status from B2 to F1 takes time and patience.
• You should apply for an F1 visa as soon as possible after deciding to change status.
• The process can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months, so be prepared for a potentially lengthy wait.
• It’s important to make sure you have all the required documents and forms before starting the process.
• You can check processing times online to get an idea of how long you’ll have to wait.

What Is a B2 Visa and an F1 Visa?

Before we dive into the process of changing your visa status, let’s take a quick look at what a B2 visa and an F1 visa are.

The B2 visa is a nonimmigrant visa that allows foreign nationals to visit the United States temporarily for pleasure, medical treatment, or visiting family and friends. It is often referred to as a tourist visa.

On the other hand, the F1 visa is a nonimmigrant visa that allows foreign nationals to study in the United States. It is granted to individuals who are enrolled in academic or language training programs that are not vocational or recreational in nature.

Why Would You Want to Change Your Visa Status?

There are several reasons why someone may want to change their visa status from B2 to F1. Here are a few:

• You have decided to enroll in an academic program in the US
• You have been offered a scholarship or funding for your studies
• You want to extend your stay in the US and can no longer do so on a B2 visa

Whatever the reason, it’s important to make sure you have all the required documents and forms before starting the process.

When to Apply for an F1 Visa

If you’ve decided to change your status from B2 to F1, it’s important to apply for your new visa as soon as possible. Ideally, you should apply within the first 30 days of your arrival in the US, as this will give you enough time to complete the application process before your current status expires.

You should also keep in mind that changing your status from B2 to F1 can take several months, so it’s important to plan accordingly.

How to Change Your Visa Status from B2 to F1

To change your visa status from B2 to F1, you will need to take the following steps:

1. Obtain a Form I-20 from the academic institution you wish to attend.
2. Complete the Form I-539, Application to Extend or Change Nonimmigrant Status.
3. Submit the completed Form I-539, along with the required supporting documents and filing fee.
4. Wait for your application to be processed.

Required Documents and Forms

To change your visa status from B2 to F1, you will need to submit the following documents and forms:

• Form I-539, Application to Extend or Change Nonimmigrant Status
• Form I-20, Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status
• A copy of your current B2 visa
• Evidence of financial support (such as bank statements or scholarship award letters)
• A copy of your passport biographical page
• A recent passport-style photograph of yourself

Processing Times for Changing Your Visa Status

The processing time for changing your visa status from B2 to F1 can vary depending on a number of factors, including the volume of applications being processed at the time, the accuracy and completeness of your application, and your specific circumstances.

On average, it can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months for your application to be processed. You can check processing times online to get an estimate of how long you’ll have to wait.

Tips for a Successful Application

To increase the chances of a successful application to change your visa status from B2 to F1, keep the following tips in mind:

• Make sure your application is complete and accurate.
• Provide all required supporting documents.
• Don’t wait until the last minute to apply.
• Be patient and prepared for a potentially lengthy wait.

FAQ

Q: Can I travel outside the US while my application to change status is being processed?

A: Yes, you can travel outside the US while your application is being processed. However, you will need to return to the US before your current visa status expires.

Q: How long can I stay in the US once my F1 visa is approved?

A: Once your F1 visa is approved, you will be allowed to stay in the US for the duration of your academic program, as long as you remain enrolled and make satisfactory academic progress.

Q: Can I work while on an F1 visa?

A: Yes, you can work on campus for up to 20 hours per week while you are enrolled in an academic program. You may also be eligible for off-campus employment under certain circumstances.