At Herman Legal Group, we understand the dreams and challenges international students face. Our team assists students from around the world in securing the right visa, maintaining compliance with U.S. immigration laws, and transitioning to work or other immigration statuses after graduation. Whether you are applying for a new student visa, changing status, or facing a visa denial, we offer personalized legal strategies to protect your future.
Studying in the U.S. comes with life-changing opportunities — world-class education, networking, and pathways to employment or permanent residency. However, the process is also governed by strict rules on enrollment, work eligibility, and maintaining lawful status. Any misstep, such as dropping below full-time study or working without authorization, can lead to loss of status, visa cancellation, or even long-term bans from reentry.
Lengthy Processing Times – Visa applications and extensions can take months to process.
Status Maintenance – Failing to follow U.S. immigration rules can lead to termination of status.
Work Authorization Confusion – Misunderstanding rules for CPT, OPT, or on-campus jobs.
Change of Status Complexities – Moving from tourist visas, work visas, or other statuses to student visas can be tricky.
Visa Denials at the Embassy – Often due to insufficient ties to the home country or incomplete documentation.
We provide tailored legal solutions for every stage of your academic and immigration journey:
F-1 and M-1 Visa Applications – Preparing strong, compliant visa petitions for study in the U.S.
Change of Status to Student Visa – Helping those already in the U.S. transition from B-2 tourist or other visas to F-1 or M-1.
Visa Extensions and Reinstatement – Filing well-prepared petitions to avoid unlawful presence and restore legal status after termination.
Optional Practical Training (OPT) – Guiding students to secure post-graduation work authorization.
Curricular Practical Training (CPT) – Ensuring lawful work authorization during studies.
Transition to H-1B or Employment-Based Green Card – Helping graduates move from student to professional work visas.
Visa Denials and Consular Processing Issues – Addressing refusals, administrative holds, and reapplication strategies.
Keeping your U.S. student visa in good standing is critical to avoid falling out of status, which can result in termination of your SEVIS record, loss of legal stay, and potential bans on reentry. The U.S. government requires strict compliance with immigration rules throughout your program. Even small mistakes can have serious consequences.
Here are the key responsibilities every international student must follow:
Enroll Full-Time Each Academic Term
You must maintain full-time enrollment at an SEVP-certified school. Dropping below the required credits without prior authorization from your Designated School Official (DSO) can result in immediate status loss.
Avoid Unauthorized Employment
Working without proper CPT, OPT, or on-campus authorization is one of the fastest ways to lose your status. Always confirm work eligibility before accepting any employment, paid or unpaid.
Keep Your SEVIS Record Updated
If you change your address, phone number, major, or degree program, you must notify your DSO within 10 days. Your SEVIS record must always reflect your accurate details.
Follow Program Deadlines and End Dates
The I-20 form lists the start and end date of your program. If you need more time to complete your studies, request a program extension before your current I-20 expires.
Travel and Reentry Compliance
If you leave the U.S., ensure your I-20 is signed for travel and your visa is valid for reentry. Failure to do so may result in denial at the port of entry.
Apply for Extensions or Changes Before Expiration
We assist in preparing strong extension petitions that avoid status violations, ensuring continuous legal stay without gaps that could harm your future immigration prospects.
Understand Grace Periods
After completing your studies, you typically have a 60-day grace period to prepare for departure, transfer to another school, or apply for a change of status. Overstaying this period can lead to serious penalties.
By staying compliant, you protect your legal right to study in the U.S., maintain eligibility for work programs like CPT and OPT, and safeguard your ability to return in the future.
While on an F-1 or M-1 visa, work opportunities are regulated:
On-Campus Employment – Up to 20 hours per week during school terms.
Curricular Practical Training (CPT) – Employment related to your course of study.
Optional Practical Training (OPT) – 12 months of work authorization after graduation, with possible STEM extension.
Post-Graduation Transition – Moving to an H-1B or other work visa.
Many students enter the United States in a different visa category such as a tourist (B-2) and later decide to pursue studies. Others may finish their program on an F-1 visa and want to transition to a work visa like H-1B. Changing your status can be an excellent way to remain in the country legally, but it requires careful timing, proper documentation, and strategic legal planning.
Our team helps students and visitors evaluate eligibility, prepare strong applications, and avoid status gaps that could jeopardize future immigration benefits. Whether you are switching from B-2 to F-1, F-1 to H-1B, or another visa type, we make the process smooth and compliant with all U.S. immigration rules.
Over 100 Years of Combined Legal Expertise
Vigorous Representation for Your Rights
Deep Knowledge and Strong Trial Background
AV-Rated by Martindale-Hubbell
Over 100 Years of Combined Legal Expertise
Vigorous Representation for Your Rights
Deep Knowledge and Strong Trial Background
AV-Rated by Martindale-Hubbell
Head Office OH
408 West Saint Clair Avenue, Suite 230 Cleveland, OH 44113
Phone Number
+1-216-696-6170
Email Address
richardtmherman@gmail.com
A student visa allows foreign nationals to enter the U.S. to study at an approved school, college, or university. Most international students require an F-1 or M-1 visa before starting their program.
You must first be accepted by a SEVP-approved school, receive your Form I-20, pay the SEVIS fee, and then schedule a visa interview at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in your home country.
Yes, but restrictions apply. F-1 visa holders can work on-campus during their first academic year and may be eligible for OPT or CPT for off-campus work related to their field of study.
If your visa expires but you maintain your student status by following your program requirements, you can remain in the U.S. However, you must renew your visa before reentering the country after travel.
CLEVELAND (HEADQUARTER)
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