How do I know if my F-1 is expired?

How Do I Know if My F-1 Status is Expired?

Many international students in the U.S. on an F-1 visa mistakenly believe their visa’s expiration date dictates the length of their permitted stay. This is a crucial misunderstanding. While your F-1 visa allows you entry into the United States, it’s your Form I-94, the Arrival-Departure Record, that truly determines how long you can legally remain in the country and maintain your F-1 status. So, how do you check if your F-1 status, as reflected by your I-94, is expired?

Understanding the I-94: The I-94 is your electronic record of arrival and departure from the U.S. It’s essentially your digital immigration stamp. Crucially, the “Admit Until Date” on your I-94 signifies the end date of your authorized F-1 status. This date might be different, and often longer, than the expiration date printed on your physical F-1 visa.

Accessing Your I-94: Checking your I-94 is simple and can be done online:

1. Visit the CBP website: Go to the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) website and navigate to the I-94 retrieval page.
2. Input your information: You’ll need to provide information such as your passport number, country of citizenship, and date of birth.
3. Retrieve your I-94: The website will then display your I-94 record, including your “Admit Until Date.” This date is the key to understanding your F-1 status.

Interpreting Your I-94:

• “D/S” (Duration of Status): If your I-94 shows “D/S” next to the “Admit Until Date,” this means your F-1 status is valid for the duration of your academic program. This doesn’t mean it’s indefinite; it means you maintain status as long as you are a full-time student making normal progress towards your degree. You must continue to meet all F-1 visa requirements. Check with your Designated School Official (DSO) to confirm your program end date and ensure your SEVIS records are accurate.
• Specific Date: If your I-94 displays a specific date, your F-1 status is valid until that date. Ensure you understand why this date was assigned and what steps are required to extend your stay if necessary. Consult your DSO well in advance of this date.

What if my F-1 Status Has Expired?

If you discover your F-1 status has expired, you are considered out of status and must take immediate action. Do not delay. Contact your DSO immediately to discuss options, which may include applying for reinstatement. Being out of status can have serious consequences for future immigration benefits, so it’s vital to address this situation promptly and correctly.

Key Takeaways:

• Your F-1 visa expiration date and your F-1 status expiration date are not the same thing.
• Your I-94 determines the expiration date of your F-1 status.
• Regularly check your I-94 to ensure you maintain valid F-1 status.
• Contact your DSO immediately if you have any questions or concerns about your F-1 status.

This article provides general information and does not constitute legal advice. It’s always recommended to consult with an immigration attorney or your DSO for specific guidance regarding your individual situation.