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How to Regain F-1 Status?

If your F-1 status becomes invalid, you can regain it through two ways: I-20 reinstatement within the U.S. and reactivating your I-20 by leaving and re-entering the country.

If your F-1 status becomes invalid, there are two methods to restore it: I-20 reinstatement within the U.S. and reactivating your I-20 by re-entry. Here is a comparison of  both methods:

 

I-20 Reinstatement within the U.S.

Reactivating I-20 by Re-Entry

Requirements
  • When submitting the application, your status must not have been invalid for more than 5 months;

  • No repeated or intentional violations of regulations;

  • No unauthorized employment;

  • Currently enrolled or planning to enroll as a full-time student;

  • No grounds for deportation;

  • You must be able to provide the following explanations:

    • You were unable to maintain your status due to circumstances beyond your control;
    • You failed to meet the full-time student requirements for specific reasons, and the DSO did not assist in reducing your course load, which led to the termination of your status.
  • Your passport and F-1 visa must be valid (passport validity must exceed 6 months).

  • You must have a valid I-20, financial proof, and proof of full-time enrollment.

  • Pay the I-901 SEVIS fee again.

Procedures

  1. Either transfer to a new school or obtain readmission approval from your original school.

  2. Contact your DSOs and have them endorse reinstatement in the SEVP system and issue a new I-20 for reinstatement.

  3. Sign the new I-20, complete Form I-539, and submit the reinstatement application to USCIS.

  4. USCIS will review the application and notify both the applicant and the DSO of the result by mail.

  5. If your application is approved, you can begin full-time studies from the date indicated on the new I-20.

  1. Apply for an urgent transfer.

  2. Pay the I-901 fee and obtain a new I-20.

  3. Bring your new I-20, I-901 payment receipt, passport, and other materials for F-1 visa applications.

  4. Re-enter the U.S.

  5. Regain your F-1 status.

Costs

  • Attorney Fees: $600 - $1,000

  • I-539 Application Fee: $370

  • Premium Processing Fee: $1,750

  • I-901 SEVIS Fee: $350
  • Travel expenses

  • I-901 fee: $350

  • Application fees for transfer

Processing Time

6-10 months

The process can be completed within as short as one day.