US Immigration and Student Visa Changes Since 9-11

Due to the attacks on the US on Sept. 11 there have been quite a few changes to the process of immigration and obtaining a student visa. If you’re planning to study in the US then you’ll need to understand some of the new mandatory rules regarding your ability to enter the US and obtain a higher education. Start early concerning your immigration to the US for study because it does take time to process the paperwork. Here's the basics of what’s changed and what’s now required.

Immigration to the US has changed. You’ll need to take seriously the new regulations because it will make things run more smoothly for you, and will cut down on the amount of time waiting to attend a school. Here are some new rules about getting and keeping your student visa.

1. You may not attend any school before you’ve changed your immigration status. For example, you can’t be on a visitor’s visa, and then enroll at a college or university and attend it full or part time until approval has been granted by the INS or Immigration Naturalization Service. This is because all participating schools must be enrolled in the SEVIS, or Student Exchange Visitor Information System. They report directly to the INS and other schools about foreign students and their families. 

2. If you want to attend a school you must submit all of the correct immigration paper work before entering the country. As important it must be clearly stated on all forms that you’re coming to the US to study. You may change your status from visitor to student visa at that point. 

3. Visitor visas are further restricted by the new immigration rules. Not only will you be required to limit your visit, but you’ll need to go before an INS interviewer, and be able to explain why you need an extension. If the cause of your stay is indeterminate you’ll be allowed to have a 30 day time period admission to the US.