Yes, you can apply for an F-1 visa while you are in the United States on a visitor's visa. This is called a "change of status." However, there are a few things to keep in mind:
- You must be in good standing on your visitor's visa. This means that you have not violated any of the terms of your visa, such as by overstaying your stay or working illegally.
- You must have been accepted to a SEVP-certified school in the United States.
- You must be able to demonstrate that you have sufficient financial resources to support yourself during your studies.
To apply for a change of status, you will need to file Form I-539 with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). You will also need to pay a filing fee and submit supporting documentation, such as your I-20 form and proof of financial resources.
If your change of status application is approved, you will be able to remain in the United States as an F-1 student. You will also be issued a new Form I-94 form, which will show your new immigration status.
It is important to note that applying for a change of status from visitor to student does not guarantee that your application will be approved. USCIS will carefully review your application and make a decision based on the specific facts of your case.
