Hold Both USA Visit and Student Visas: Is It Allowed?

Yes, you can hold both a USA visit visa (B1/B2) and a student visa (F1), but there are important considerations and rules to keep in mind:

Key Points

1. Separate Purposes:

o The B1/B2 visa is for temporary visits for business (B1) or tourism (B2).

o The F1 visa is specifically for studying at an accredited US educational institution.

2. Concurrent Validity:

o It is possible to hold both visas at the same time, as they serve different purposes.

o Having both visas allows you to enter the US either as a tourist or as a student, depending on your needs and the visa you present at the port of entry.

Using the Visas

1. Entering the US:

o When you enter the US, you must clearly state your purpose of visit to the immigration officer.

o If you intend to study, present your F1 visa and related documents (such as your Form I-20) at the port of entry.

o If you are visiting for tourism or business, present your B1/B2 visa.

2. Changing Status Within the US:

o If you enter the US on a B1/B2 visa and decide to study, you will need to apply for a change of status to F1 with the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). This process involves submitting Form I-539 and meeting all F1 visa requirements.

o Conversely, if you enter on an F1 visa and decide to switch to a tourist status, you would need to apply for a change of status to B2.

Application Process for Each Visa

Applying for a B1/B2 Visa

1. Complete the DS-160 Form:

o Fill out the DS-160, Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application form.

o Upload a digital passport-sized photo that meets US visa photo requirements.

o Print the DS-160 confirmation page with the barcode.

2. Pay the Visa Fee:

o Pay the non-refundable visa application fee and keep the receipt.

3. Schedule a Visa Interview:

o Schedule an appointment for a visa interview at the nearest US embassy or consulate.

o Print the appointment confirmation page.

4. Prepare Required Documents:

o Valid passport.

o DS-160 confirmation page.

o Visa fee payment receipt.

o Photographs as per US visa requirements.

o Proof of financial support and ties to your home country.

o Travel itinerary and any other supporting documents.

5. Attend the Visa Interview:

o Attend your visa interview and answer the consular officer’s questions honestly and clearly.

Applying for an F1 Visa

1. Obtain Admission to a SEVP-Approved School:

o Apply to and get accepted by an SEVP-approved institution in the US.

o Receive a Form I-20 from the institution.

2. Complete the DS-160 Form:

o Fill out the DS-160 form online.

o Upload a digital passport-sized photo and print the confirmation page.

3. Pay the SEVIS Fee:

o Pay the SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System) fee and keep the receipt.

4. Schedule a Visa Interview:

o Schedule an appointment for a visa interview at the US embassy or consulate.

5. Prepare Required Documents:

o Valid passport.

o DS-160 confirmation page.

o SEVIS fee receipt.

o Form I-20.

o Proof of financial support.

o Academic records and test scores (TOEFL, IELTS, SAT, etc.).

o Proof of ties to your home country.

6. Attend the Visa Interview:

o Attend your visa interview with all required documents and be prepared to discuss your study plans, financial status, and ties to your home country.

Conclusion

You can hold both a USA visit visa and a student visa simultaneously. Ensure you use each visa for its intended purpose and comply with all related rules and regulations. When traveling, present the appropriate visa based on the purpose of your visit to the US.