Visas
It is the responsibility of each international student and dependant to maintain lawful immigration status. The following information is very basic. Please visit the International Center office or search SEVP website for more details. The most common student visa classes at the University of Florida are F and J.
F- Visa Class
Required Procedures for Maintaining Status:
F-1 student must:
- Have a valid, unexpired passport
- Attend the school they are authorized to attend
- Be a full-time student, taking a minimum of:
- 12 hours - Undergrad (Spring/Fall)
- 9 hours - Graduate (Spring/Fall)
- Refrain from unlawful employment
- Make normal progress toward completing a course of study
- Have a valid I-20 and apply for timely extensions
- Follow transfer procedures
- New I-20 required for change of degree program level or major
F-2 dependent spouse or child:
- Is only in status while the F-1 is in status
- Is not eligible for ANY employment authorization
For information about Travel outside the US with a F visa, please click here
Extension of Stay:
F-1 students must do the following:
- Continually maintain legal status
- Delay must be caused by “compelling academic or medical reasons”
- Complete I-20 Extension Request forms (provided at the International Center) and show proof of sufficient funds
- Apply for program extension at the International Center “in a 30-day period before the completion date (item 5) on Form I-20.”
F-2 dependents’ extensions are filed at the same time as the F-1.
Employment Authorization:
F-1 students are eligible for employment:
- On campus without prior approval from the International Center
- A maximum of 20 hours per week during fall/spring semesters
- Full-time during vacation periods
- Through practical training (CPT - OPT)
F-2 dependents are not permitted to work under any circumstances.
NOTE: Before accepting any employment or payments from U.S. sources, contact the International Center.