F1 Visa Guide: Everything You Need to Know About the F1 Visa
Students interested in studying in the United States should consider applying for the F1 visa. It is a non-immigrant (temporary) visa that allows students to pursue a full course of study for the duration of their program.
If you have any questions, or you need help getting an F1 visa, feel free to email me at Michael@AshooriLaw.com.
- Introduction to the F1 Visa
- F1 Visa Benefits
- F1 Visa Requirements
- F1 Visa Process
- F1 Transfer and Withdrawal
- F1 Employment on Campus
- F1 Remaining in Status during Summer and Illness
- F1 CPT and OPT
- Change of Status
- F1 Extension of Stay
- Conclusion
1. Introduction to the F1 Visa
The F1 is a powerful visa that allows students to attend school in the United States. This visa is especially necessary for those pursuing undergraduate and graduate studies.
You must first apply and be accepted to a school certified by the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP). You must register in the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) to receive an I-20 form to begin the process for gaining admission to the United States. You must then pay the SEVIS fee (Form I-901).
2. F1 Visa Benefits
- Ability to Pursue Degree in the United States
- You can pursue any number of degrees inside the United States, which boasts some of the best institutions in the world.
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Your family can accompany you
- Under the F1 visa, your spouse and children can accompany you as F2s. They are issued separate I-20s.
- Children in F2 status in grades K-12 may attend school full time.
- F2 spouses and children older than 12th grade may go to school part time.
- If they want to go to school full-time, they may change their status to F1/J1/M1.
-
Ability to Work
- You can pursue work during school and after graduation. This topic will be discussed below under F1 Employment on Campus and F1 CPT and OPT.
-
No F1 Cap
- There are currently no restrictions to the number of students that can enter the United States under an F1, you can enter the United States without having to participate in a lottery.
-
Travel
- You can travel while holding F1 status as long as you have your DSO’s approval and your I-20 is currently valid.
3. F1 Visa Requirements
Full-time course of study
You must pursue a full-time course of study. For junior college, undergraduate, or university students, that would equal 12 semester/quarter hours. You may take one online course as long as it is not an English course.
You may not reduce your courses without approval of your DSO. You can reduce courses to 6 semester/quarter hours. If there are medical reasons, the DSO can reduce the course load further.
Intention to Depart
You must demonstrate intent to return to your home country at the conclusion of your studies. If the consular officer believes you intend to overstay your F1, then your application may be rejected. The F1 is a single intent visa, which means that you cannot pursue immigrant (Green Card) options directly from F1 status.
Cannot attend publicly-funded K-12 schools
You cannot attend public elementary, middle, and high schools and instead must attend a private institution.
You can attend a public K-12 school for one year as long as you reimburse the school the cost of the education.
Sufficient Funds
You must have sufficient financial resources to support your study for the duration of your time in the U.S.
Must be Proficient in English
You must be proficient in English unless the school is able to explain why English proficiency is not required. A common reason to waive this requirement is when you are attending a school for English language training.
Must have Academic Credentials
You need to possess the correct academic credentials to attend the institution. For example, a college undergraduate must possess a degree equivalent to a U.S. high school degree.
Must Maintain Communication with DSO
You must contact your Designated School Officials (DSO) to do any of the following:
- Work in the United States
- Apply for a driver’s license
- Apply for a Social Security number
- Change your major, program, or degree level
- Change your education level
- Transfer to a new school
- Be absent from classes
- Take a vacation
- Travel outside the United States
- Move to a new address
- Change your name
- Request a program extension
Entering on a B1/B2
If you wish to come into the U.S. on a B1/B2 (Visitors’s) visa, you must still receive an F1 visa abroad and re-enter or file for a change of status.
Grace Periods
You have a grace period of 30 days before your program start date to come to the United States and a 60 day grace period to leave the US.
Health Insurance
You are not required by law to have health insurance. However, many schools have their own policies requiring it.
Changing from One Degree to Another or The Same Degree
You can speak to your DSO to pursue a higher degree or to pursue the same degree in a different field and do not need to file a new F1 petition.
4. F1 Visa Process
There are several steps toward obtaining an F1 Visa. Here is a summary of the steps along with a more detailed explanation:
- Apply to the school and obtain Form I-20
- Complete Form DS-160
- Document Gathering for Visa Interview
- Visa Interview
- Presentation at Port of Entry
Apply to the school and obtain Form I-20
The SEVIS I-20 form has basic biographical information about you, information about the school, program of study and expenses. Your F2 dependents must obtain their own I-20 forms to accompany you.
Complete Form DS-160
You and your dependents must complete Form DS-160 before scheduling a visa interview. You must upload a picture of yourself or bring one to the interview. You may also need to pay a visa issuance fee depending on the country.
Document Gathering for Visa Interview
You will need the following documents:
- Proof of payment of visa fees
- Passport valid for travel for six months
- Transcripts, diplomas, degrees, or certificates from schools you previously attended.
- Standardized test scores required by your U.S. school.
- Documents proving intent to depart the United States upon completion of the course of study.
- Proof of funding for all educational, living and travel costs.
Visa Interview
- At the interview, the officer will determine whether you are eligible for the F1 visa. Biometrics will be taken at a separate appointment, usually a day or two before. You will be told if the application is missing any information. If the interview is successful, you may need to pay an additional visa issuance fee.
Presenting Yourself at Port of Entry
- You must go to a Port of Entry and ask permission from Customs and Border Protection to enter the United States. Ports of Entry include land border crossings and major airports.
- When you present your passport, visa, and Form I-20, the CBP official will determine if you should be admitted to the United States.
- They will provide you with an admission stamp or paper Form I-94 Arrival/Departure Record.
5. F1 Transfer and Withdrawal
Who Can Transfer
You are allowed to transfer to another school as long as you meet several requirements. These requirements are:
- You must be a bona fide (real) student.
- You must have been pursuing a full-time course of study.
- You must have the funds to transfer schools.
- You must begin classes at the transferred school within 5 months of transferring out of the current school or within 5 months of the program completion date, whichever is earlier.
- You must request the SEVIS record to be transferred to the new school within 60 days of completing the program.
- You must not have worked in unauthorized employment.
How to Transfer
- You must inform the DSO, who then releases the SEVIS record to the transfer-to school
- Obtain a SEVIS I-20 from the transfer-to school
- You must notify your new DSO at the transfer-to school within 15 days of your start date. The transfer is only completed once the transfer-to school tells SEVIS that you are enrolled in classes.
- You will be considered out of status if you do not follow these procedures.
Withdrawing from an Institution
- You must request formal permission from your DSO to withdraw from the institution. You will be given 15 days to leave the U.S.
- If you do not request permission from your DSO, you will not receive a grace period.
- If you want to return to study, you must apply for a new I-20 and pay the SEVIS fee once again.
6. F1 Employment on Campus
You cannot work during your first year except for on-campus work, which can be performed as soon as you are admitted. This on-campus work must involve direct services to fellow students or research with an educationally affiliated worksite. Your DSO should approve this work beforehand.
If you transfer, you must submit a new work request from your DSO before beginning to work once again.
You may work off-campus after your year only under specific circumstances. These circumstances include the following:
- If there was an unforeseen economic hardship beyond your control, then you may work 20 hours per week when school is in session. You may work full-time during holidays or school vacations.
- If you are from a specific country for which the Department of Homeland Security has suspended employment requirements. In the past, these countries have included Indonesia, South Korea, Thailand, Malaysia, and the Philippines.
- Specific programs may be put in place for students from countries suffering from the effects of natural disasters or civil unrest.
- If you are employed by a recognized international organization.
7. F1 Students Remaining in Status During Summer and Illness
You will be considered to be in status during summer as long as you intend to return to your school for the next term.
If you fall ill and have to leave school or reduce course-load, you will remain in status until you recover, at which point you will be expected to return to your studies.
8. F1 CPT and OPT
Curricular Practical Training (CPT)
CPT is any type of required internship or practicum that can be granted on a part-time or full-time basis. Part-time CPT does not affect OPT (discussed below), while 12 months of full-time CPT makes you ineligible for OPT. You must have been in school for at least a year to qualify for CPT. You need a job offer to submit a request for CPT to a DSO.
Optional Practical Training (OPT)
OPT is temporary employment related to your field of study. It may be used before completing a program when school is not in session or during the school year as long as it is a part-time job. Pre-completion OPT will count against post-completion OPT.
You must apply within 90 days of the end of the school year or within 60 days of the program’s end. No job offer is necessary to apply for OPT.
The DSO must recommend OPT in SEVIS. You will need to file the SEVIS I-20 with OPT along with Form I-765 to obtain a work authorization document (EAD). You cannot work without the EAD.
After completing a bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree, you may engage in post-completion OPT. This will last one 12-month period. Training must be completed within 14 months of graduation.
The following include the types of employment that are allowed under OPT:
- Multiple employers
- Work for hire
- Changing employers (STEM OPT needs to be E-verified)
- Self-employment (unless STEM OPT)
- Agency or consulting firm work
- Unpaid or volunteer work as long as it is 20 hours per week (unless STEM OPT)
- Part-time work (at least 20 hours per week)
- Full-time work
You must leave the country within 60 days of completing OPT.
STEM OPT
STEM OPT is a type of post-completion OPT that does not have the 12-month limit. It applies to students who major or double major in a science, technology, engineering, or mathematics program. The position must be listed on the STEM Designated Degree Program List.
The employer must submit Form I-983 that explains their capacity to employ and train you, how you are not taking the job of a US worker, and that the training fulfills your goals. The employer must be E-verified.
Practical training must include specific goals regarding knowledge, skills, and techniques that will be learned. There must be evaluations and supervision. You must meet with your DSO every six months to discuss any changes that may have occurred.
You must provide an annual self-evaluation signed by your DSO. The I-983 must be kept current regarding any potential changes that have occurred over the course of the year.
STEM OPT may be extended by 24-months beyond the original 12 months.
Unemployment During OPT
You cannot have more than 90 days of unemployment during your 12-month OPT. If you are a STEM student, you cannot have more than 150 days unemployment during the 36-month period. Any work less than 20 hours a week counts as unemployment.
Traveling Under OPT
You can travel and re-enter only with DSO endorsement. You may continue your employment as long as the SEVIS I-20 was signed within the last 6 months by your DSO. You must present a valid F1. You should carry a job offer letter or letter of employment to ensure an easier time re-entering. You must also show your EAD at the port of entry.
9. Change of Status
As an F1 student, you have the freedom to change to a non-immigrant (temporary) visa that you qualify for. One of the most popular visas is the H-1B, which requires a bachelor’s degree or higher.
H-1B
You may consider pursuing the H-1B, which is a visa for specialty occupations that require a bachelor's degree or higher.
H-1Bs are available for the following fields:
Architecture, engineering, mathematics, physical sciences, social sciences, medicine, health, education, business, law, accounting, theology, and the arts.
H-1B and CAP-GAP
If you are selected in the H-1B lottery and have your petition approved, your new status will not take effect until October 1. Therefore, your OPT is automatically extended until September 30 of that year if it expires April 1 or later. Therefore, there is no gap between the F1 expiry and H-1B start date.
If the F1 OPT expires before April 1, then you cannot be employed until your H-1B begins October 1, but you may remain in the US.
If the H-1B has not been adjudicated by USCIS by September 30, then you may stay in the U.S. but you will not be able to work.
Should the H-1B petition be rejected, denied, or revoked, you will have a 60-day grace period to depart.
You should not travel while your cap-gap change of status is pending because the change of status may be considered abandoned.
You may change employers during the CAP-GAP period.
10. F1 Extension of Stay
You may request an extension of stay if you are behind in your studies. Your DSO may grant such an extension if there were complications like medical reasons or academic decisions. These academic decisions can include changing major, research topic, research complications, and more.
Academic probation or suspension are not acceptable reasons for an extension of stay.
If you have not completed your program and do not file for an extension when necessary, you will be considered out of status. You must then file for a reinstatement.
11. Conclusion
The F1 is a powerful non-immigrant visa that allows students to complete their program of study in the United States. You should now have a much stronger understanding of the various aspects of the F1 visa, including the F1 visa benefits, F1 visa requirements, and F1 visa process.
If you have any questions on any of the information discussed in this guide, feel free to email me directly at Michael@AshooriLaw.com. I’m a U.S. immigration lawyer, I’m very responsive via email, and I would be happy to help you.
RESOURCES
Student Process Steps: How to Navigate the U.S. Immigration System
Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application (DS-160)
F1 Curricular Practical Training (CPT)
Optional Practical Training (OPT) for F1 Students
I-765, Application for Employment Authorization
Kurzban's Immigration Law Sourcebook 16th Edition © 2018
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Imthiyas Yakuban
1679535187
I very rarely give reviews to the service rendered to me unless I'm extremely happy about how the service helped me in a timely manner. I hope this could help others to have the best service if you are looking for any immigration services. I still... remember, while I was hunting for an ideal law firm to represent my US Green Card application for about an year+. After several considerations & consultations with various law firms and attorneys, out of which I selected Ashoori Law firm to present my Green Card application. I'm glad that I made the right choice to go with Ashoori Law firm. Ashoori Law is an unique firm which operates in a very professional way in documenting and exhibiting your experience in a more presentable way to immigration authorities. Ashoori & his team are very accessible, supportive, timely, experts in their area and passionate about what they do which makes our Green Card journey much easy and memorable one. I STRONGLY recommend Ashoori Law for any type of immigration services.read more
neelam amin
1679369163
The team at Ashoori law office has been very helpful throughout our process of E-2 starting from the explanation of how the process works, eligibility etc. They made sure our documents were up to date during every step of E-2 process.The team was... always available to answer our questions, concerns when needed.I would like to thank Ashoori Firm & special shout out to Lahaina and her team who have helped us achieve the E-2 change of status approval.We are extremely glad of finding a great immigration law firm for all our future requirements as well.I highly recommend Ashoori Law firm for any immigration needs.Thank you so much once again to:Michael Ashoori, Lahaina, Michael Prellejera, James and rest of the team.read more
Mohamed Zidan
1679341807
Koby Wood is an excellent representative of Ashoori Law. He always walk the extra mile and get out of his working way to make sure things are executed properly. Thank you Koby
Pat Rossi
1678932279
Ashoori Law did a great job on my Visa application. They guided us every step of the way and our Visa was approved. Very satisfied with their work.
Marco Narsete
1678744384
We are absolutely thrilled that we just got our e2 visa thanks to Ashoori Law! When we were searching for an immigration lawyer at the beginning of our journey, we came across the Ashoori Law Firm and were immediately impressed with all of their... reviews from clients. On our initial phone call to the firm we spoke with Eshan and we were immediately sold. He took the time to answer all of our questions and concerns and made himself available for future phone calls if we had any other questions about the process. Our lawyer Lahaina was wonderful and she always made sure that we stayed informed during the entire process. She fully prepared us for the interview and any hiccups we might come across. Thanks also to Patricia who we worked with us and took care of our business plan. She did a phenomenal job. Christina was also a huge help. She was so precise throughout the time we were gathering documents and information. She made sure that we had absolutely everything in order before our application was ready to submit. We are so grateful to the team and wouldn’t hesitate to recommend Ashoori Law!read more
Junior Turner
1678720966
Best lawyer to work with right now for your immigration case I truly recommend them
Hesam Kazemeini
1677991676
Based on my recent experience, Ashoori Law is an organized, professional and friendly organization. They have all qualifications one might need for immigration representation. Mr. Michael Ashoori is an honest, knowledgeable and supporting attorney... and is supported by a professional team.Since the beginning of my case, everything was clearly explained to me so I understand all the challenges we would face. In the course of the application, my case was followed and all my questions were properly addressed until we got the answer.So I would highly recommend Ashoori Law.read more
Majed Darwazeh
1677816583
We are a Jordanian family visiting the US on a B1/B2 visa and we found a very interesting and promising business to invest in. Ashoori Law was there for the support and made it happen also pulled it together in very professional and short timely... manner before our stay ends. We appreciate the cooperation and all the extra ordinary support plus we highly recommend Ashoori law for any immigration services.read more
Figen Baysal Gedik
1677800395
I have been through E2 application and E2 renewal process for some years with some other attorneys. I can tell Ashoori Law and attorney Hany Brollesy make our process so much easier compared to our previous attorneys. Their knowledge, quick... responses were great. I am so happy to be able to find them and work with them. Immigration is a painful process so better to choose the law partner that will make your process easier like Ashoori Law. Thank youread more
Daisja Edwards
1677625910
Very professional, responds in timely manner! They answered every question we had! I will recommend them to anyone that needs help their case.
Chiyuki Williams
1677605666
Our journey started with a friendly call with Ehsan who ensured us that they would look after our E2 application process. We choose Fernando as our franchise consultant, who was very friendly, competent and did a thorough job introducing us to many... franchises. Fernando matched us with the very best franchisees. We were also very fortunate as we were assigned a competent immigration attorney, Cristina, who was very friendly yet professional. Cristina worked with us closely every step of the process until we successfully got our E2 change of status. I have heard from some Canadian families of their negative experiences with the immigration services at Ashoori Law, but that hasn't deterred us from we sharing Ashoori Law with other Canadian families, who have showed interest in getting their E2. In conclusion, we are very glad that our friends referred us to Ashoori Law.read more
Yuka Kataoka
1677581194
Ashoori Law office assisted me in obtaining a re-entry permit for a green card holder. I had a free telephone consultation during which they explained the application process in detail, their fees, and their planned procedures. They assigned a... single point of contact who assisted me in filling out the application form, monitored the status and followed up with the immigration office when/if necessary. I felt that Ashoori Law had my best interest at heart and did everything they could to help me through the process. When my assigned contact person was out of the office (only once during this long process), someone else stepped in quickly to answer my questions. Their internal coordination worked seamlessly. If I have another immigration matter that requires a lawyer, I know I will reach out to Ashoori Law. I also recommend the Ashoori Law YouTube channel as it provides valuable information in a very timely manner.read more
Jadranka Dragic
1677524302
I got exelaint experience with Ashoori Law firm they advice us me and my now husband what to do how to apply for a green card and I received the green card after only a seven months.Ashoori Law firm is the one I recommend to anyone who has an... issue with the immigration or naturalization in USA.They are so professional and helpful.read more
Sebastian Duerr
1677128931
Michael and his colleagues are very skilled and knowledgable. Particularly Matthew is great. Although we needed to contact the operations team proactively, they do great work for us. Thank you for providing guidance through this complex process.
l am who I am - A Jamaican
1677019507
Thanks to Ashoori Law I have now gain aquire my change of status within a very short space of time.I have no reservation in recommending this Immigration Law Firm..You have indeed help to change my life and I know many more to come.
Donnie Ramlal
1677009911
The entire team at Ashoori law has done a fantastic job of securing our E2 status here in USA . Every step of the process was very transparent and professional. They have treated us like family at the same time and have helped us secure an... opportunity to live the American dream . Special thanks to Michael , Ehsan , Rebecca , Patricia and others who have worked on our case .If you are looking for a law firm to attend to all your immigration needs , no matter what your situation is , look no more . Rest assured Michael Ashoori law have your best interests at heart . It’s a one stop shop , they handle everything for you 💯 %read more
uanderson duarte
1677000716
Well experienced , reliable and fast team , Ashoori Law team guided me efficiently in getting me and my family E2 Visa.
Vlado Kolistrkoski
1676563057
My experience with Ashoori Law started when my younger son had an issue with his green card and it was solved really very professionally so my son recommended me Ashoori Law. So when I found the love of my life Ashoori Law was the firm help me out... with all the advice and finally resolved the issue with getting the green card for my now new wife and because of that I am very satisfied and recommend Ashoori Law as a great professional and friendly firm providing excellent service.Best regardsVlado Kolistrkoski.read more
saha kabgani
1676487618
So happy to have worked with this law firm, We obtained them for my E2 Visa. They are for responsive, helpful and my entire process went very smooth considering I was very afraid not having the knowledge of how to proceed. I definitely recommend... them as I have also dealt with a few different lawyers regarding similar matter and unfortunately I did not have as great result as I did with them.read more
KAY QIAO
1676013472
Probably the most efficient and professional attorney I've worked with. They answered my emails fast and in detail, so I always could get the answer that I was asking for. Highly recommend to anyone who need true support and professionalism.Thank... you so much.:)read more
Felix Evans
1675895179
Ashoori Law, is the best and most professional Legal firm I have done business with. They provide support, responds to queries promptly and most of all provide excellent service dealing with the issues. Excellent Immigration Legal Firm
Leila Rafiei
1675888317
Ashoori Law gave us the guidance and expertise we were looking for our E2 visa. Always supportive, extremely knowledgeable and very thorough. Ashoori team is the success factor that resulted in an approved visa!
Michelle M Kang
1675473942
I was very pleased with the work Ashoori Law did for me and am excited to take the next step moving forward in my journey to immigration to the U.S. My decision to work with Ashoori was one of the greatest things I have ever done in my entire life.... During the several months working with the firm, I learned a lot about the firm in addition to my first impression from the initial consultation. Ashoori Law is young, driven, positive, and passionate about helping others achieve their goals and dreams in their lives. They have a keen eye for finding out what you have whether big or small and have the knowledge and skills that turn it into a success. If your chances of success in your immigration journey are 10%, they won’t give up and lead you somewhere you are fully qualified and successful. Of course, you have to be cooperative to make that happen. For example, your honesty, sincerity, determination, professional attitude, communication, etc. will matter all the way to your success. I believe that Ashoori Law has great potential to continue to grow and serve diverse clients from around the world.read more
Adeel ad
1675369694
I recommend this law firm to anyone looking for US immigration lawyer. The attorneys has tons of knowledge and they know what they are doing. The information or advice they give you is 100% correct. Very professional staff. Our attorney Matthew and... Business professional team were outstanding. Matthew and Kimberly also worked during the weekend or after hours to answer all our questions. I’ll definitely come back for future immigration requirements .read more
Ani Mikirdichian
1675115376
Ashoori Law has been a great partner throughout our immigration process. They have made this whole experience very easy and have answered all of our questions along the way. We highly recommend Ashoori Law and can not thank them enough!!
Ruth Ngakae
1675111500
Hello everyone,I wish to testify that Ashoori law firm is the right place for all kind of immigration issues,I personally have the best experience of my life being one of their client.The Ashoori law firm took me all the way from the beginning of my... case till date,the lawyers are so kind and very respectful,patient and understanding,they respond to your calls and reply your emails giving you update of your case and all what is needed to be done,they filled all my paperwork,sent to me to check and sent back to them for any corrections and gave me that warm assurance,as I am talking to you right now, my case has been approved,I am so grateful to God and the Ashoori law firm who sacrificed their time for me till this very moment,I am based in Georgia and they are based in California so bear in mind that distance is not a barrier,please hurry up and call Michael Ashoori and colleagues in any immigration case you have been battling with and then tomorrow you will definitely come here and testify your victory as I am doing now,My sincere big thank you to God Almighty who linked me to Ashoori law firm who has put a beautiful smile on my face and my entire family,Long live Ashoori law firm and God bless y’all 👍🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏read more
Ever Zalazar
1675095317
Ashoori Law handled my working permit application professionally. Their staff is very professional. Since day one, I contacted them; I knew my process would have a positive outcome. During the whole process, I always received the support of the... team, any conference call to follow up was on time, and the information satisfied my questions. I'm delighted to have chosen Ashoori law.read more
Sahan Kaushal (Kawwa)
1675059855
I feel really happy that I have processed my Re-Entry Permit with Ashoori Law. They have been great, very responsive and professional. I would recommend 'Ashoori Law' to any one who is in need of anything related to immigration.I am highly... satisfied with their service. Thanks 'Ashoori Law'.read more
Shota Leladze
1674871442
The team is helpful! I've have the answers on all of my questions I've ever asked to them!
Leah H
1674833566
Our Texas based Endurance Horse Racing company was just approved for our E2 Visa along with our three essential employees yesterday at the Toronto Consulate. I wanted to thank Ashoori Law and their team for such excellent and professional care they... took for our family and business. We had a very unique case with an unusual business type, complicated investment, and three essential employees all being applied for at once. I have no regrets hiring their law firm to walk us through this process step by step ensuring that every t was crossed and I dotted along the way. We placed our lives in their hands, and they truly took care of us. I HIGHLY recommend their services to anyone looking to obtain an E2 status. A special thank you to their team member Christina who always replied promptly and thoroughly to all my questions, taking the time to really understand the uniqueness of our situation and having never met anyone on their team, really making us feel cared for and important.read more
Abdulakim Abrahim
1674829940
Please help me I am from Ethiopia thanks
AN
1674746245
I recommend this law firm to anyone looking for US immigration lawyer. The attorneys has tons of knowledge and they know what they are doing. The information or advice they give you is 100% correct. Very professional staff. Our attorney Rebecca and... Business professional Elaine were outstanding. Rebecca also worked during the weekend or after hours to answer all our questions. I’ll definitely come back for future immigration requirements and will let friends and family know as well.read more
Anne Summanen
1674700602
My family and I got a successful E2 Visa with the help of Ashoori Law. They are well organized and have a system that get things done. With the help of a portal, it made it easy for us to keep on track and to follow our progress. Every one was... extremely professional. Thank you so much! Highly recommended!read more
Pragadeesh Suresh Babu
1674687597
Had a great experience with Ashoori law after I was recommended to them by a colleague. They were very professional and answered all my questions in a timely manner. Definitely recommend!
Antoni Matte
1674652577
With the help of Ashoori law and their team, our application went smoothly and we were able to get our visa.
Brahim Bougrayne
1674620459
Im a citizen from Belgium and has applied voor a E2 visa and thanks too Ashoori Law i have been approved!!His team did a great job, they help you step by step and always can you reach them by phone, email or whatsup!!Thanks Ashoori Law
Adriana HERNANDEZ BERMUDEZ
1674529670
Hello,My name is Adriana, I am from Colombia. I married my husband Edward who is an American citizen in Bogota Colombia in 2013. My husband moved to Bogota in 2015 until we decided in late 2022 it was time for me to apply for my USA Residency.... We started searching for Immigration Lawyers and came accross Michael Ashoori through a referral from EIN Express where I received my ITIN number. We emailed Ashoori Law and quickly received a reply explaining that a phone interview was required. The interviewer was ontime and very efficient in answering all our questions and concerns. We then decided to use Ashoori Law. A list of documents which were needed were sent to us, keep in mind that if you do not provide these Documents in a timely manner Ashoori Law can not do their job to help you. We had one person ¨Zeser¨ from almost the very beginning to assist us with every concern or question until today he continues to answer questions. Ashoori Law office filed all the documents with USCIS in the first week of June, 2022 in January 2023 I received my United States Of America Employment Authorization Card. I sincerely recommend Ashoori Law not only for their excellent customer service but also for their efficient work.Thank You.Adriana Hernández Bermúdez.read more
Escheyder Acosta
1674504347
My company chose Ashoori Law to help me out in getting my work VISA to be able to move to the USA.At first, they send you a welcome email with all contacts and assigned lawyer. I think this is a nice touch so I can get familiar with the people... within the firm I can contact.I felt a little bit lost at first. They have their own sharepoint to upload files and fill out forms. However, after I had my first meeting with Lorianne (my lawyer) everything was cleared out.There was so many information to be gathered for my type of VISA. Lorianne was very helpful in giving us advise on the strategy to follow to present my case. Whole process to gather information took around 3-months.In the end, after one last meeting, we were able to have everything ready to submit. VISA was approved right away without any questions from the immigration department.This firm was great help during my process. I have only worked with Lorianne. However, judging by her response time and customer service, I think overall, it is a great firm for the process they helped me with.read more
Yoonmo Sang
1674433283
I've worked with Ashoori Law's lawyers on multiple occasions and had great outcomes always. In addition, the staff are very helpful and friendly. I would definitely recommend Ashoori Law for anyone.
Akash Giri
1674155687
I recently applied for a green card using the services of Ashoori Law firm. The firm's team are knowledgeable, professional, and attentive to every detail of my case. They helped me every step of the way and were able to answer any questions I had.... The communication was clear and very fast, making me very well -informed every step of the way. They are experts in the field and truly care about the clients. Highly recommended!!!read more
Raja Zulqarnain Haider
1673727230
We just had an E-2 approval from the U.S. consulate Islamabad Pakistan.We found this firm on the internet. When I read on their web page that they specialized in E2 visas, I send an email to Attorney Michael Ashoori for initial consulting. After a... brief phone conversation I was satisfiedThere is quite a lot of paper work involved and documents to be supplied. Our Attorney was Lahaina. She and her whole team prepared our case very efficiently.The best thing about this firm is they have friendly and helpful paralegals. And they have online portal where you can check your status anytime. Plus the whole team is available 24/7!We would definitely recommend using Ashoori lawread more
Phongmanas S
1673551512
Thank you so much everyone for your help. My O1 visa approved because of all your help and guidance and carefully looking on my evidence to submit with USCIS.This is a very good news of my life. It's proved that all my past work has qualify the... ability of myself to work in US.Thank you to all of you and Ashoori law team from the first day that we have talked so far.Regards,Tanread more
Lords Child 777
1673482463
Ashoori Law is the ABSOLUTE best law firm I have dealt with concerning Immigration and much more. Daniel Tierney Atty, is the most professional, intelligent, and courteous etc., Attorney I have communicated with. He is one of the main reasons I have... chose this law firm. This law group uses state of the art telecommunicating program where you are literally so informed and advised before, during, and after your calls with them. Their administration is fabulous as well. A to Z these people are the BEST! Try them and see for yourself.read more
Siranush Vardanyan
1673366640
My husband and I used Ashoori Law Services for our E2 Visa Application. Our case was a challenging one from the beginning but having assigned Rebecca as our attorney, the process started to move forward very smoothly. Rebecca is a highly... professional lawyer, who pays attention to every detail and follow up with every request even during her weekends. We successfully got approval of our case thanks to Rebecca's professionalism and dedication. I have already recommended Ashoori Law firm to some of my friends, who are looking for a professional legal support. We intend to continue working with Ashoori Firm in future as well.read more
Michael Ashoori, Esq.
U.S. Immigration Lawyer
I’m a U.S. immigration lawyer and I help families, professionals, investors, and entrepreneurs get visas, green cards, and citizenship to the United States.
Since starting my law firm, I’ve helped hundreds of people from all over the world with their immigration needs. I’m very passionate, hard-working, and committed to my clients.
Got a question? Send me an email.