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F1 Visa expired/ Valid I 20. Is there a risk to have F1 Visa denied?
Anonymous1 views2 answers
I came to US with a 3 months visa. I've been extending my I 20 for the last 4 years. I would like to go home and apply for a new visa; however, I am afraid to have it denied. Do you think there is a real risk? I do have financial documents that prove that I have financial sources to support my studies here.
I am just concerned that I would be characterized as a immigrant because I let the visa be expired for such long time.
Thank you.
If you have been out of status for 4 years, you will not be granted a new F-1 visa. You best bet would be to seek a green card through marriage to a USC, as long as the relationship is genuine. You definitely need a lawyer.
The fact that you did not get another F-1 visa for the past four years will not affect your application for a new visa now. If you have been in valid F-1 status for the past four years, and you continue to have a valid I-20 when you apply for a new F-1 visa, then the issue is whether you continue to have bona fide student intent, as opposed to immigrant intent. If you can continue to show your financial ability to pay for school, ties to your home country, and a credible explanation of your goals in school and beyond, then you should be issued a new F-1 visa.
