Regaining Your F-1 Status: What to Do After a Violation

If you’ve fallen out of status on your F-1 student visa, don’t panic—there are two main options available to get back on track:

Two Ways to Regain F-1 Status:

Option 1: Apply for Reinstatement through USCIS

Option 2: Leave the U.S. and return with a new Initial I-20 and re-enter in F-1 status

This guide focuses on Option 1: Applying for Reinstatement. To determine which option is best for your situation, start by meeting with your International Student Advisor (ISA). They’ll assess your eligibility and guide you through the process.

 

Who Can Apply for Reinstatement?

To be eligible for reinstatement through USCIS, you must meet the following criteria:

• You’ve been out of status for no more than 5 months when applying (unless you can prove exceptional circumstances).
• No record of repeated or willful violations of F-1 visa regulations.
• You are currently enrolled, or plan to enroll soon, in a full course of study.
• You haven’t worked illegally in the U.S.
• You are not deportable on any other grounds.

 

Step-by-Step Reinstatement Process

1. Meet with an International Student Advisor (ISA)

• Schedule an appointment to discuss your eligibility for reinstatement.
• If approved, the ISA will provide a link to the Reinstatement I-20 Request Form.

2. Prepare Your Reinstatement Request

You’ll need to upload several documents through the e-form:

• Personal Letter of Explanation
  Explain why you fell out of status and how you meet the criteria for reinstatement. You must show that:
  • The violation happened due to circumstances beyond your control (like illness or injury), OR
  • The violation was related to a course load issue that could have been approved by your DSO, and not reinstating you would cause extreme hardship.
• Declaration of Finances Form
• Recent Financial Documents
  Show that you can afford your tuition and living expenses (and your dependents, if any).

3. Receive Reinstatement I-20 from ISSS

• ISSS processing takes 7–10 business days.
• You’ll receive your digitally signed I-20 via email, which includes the reinstatement recommendation.

 

Filing Your Application with USCIS

Choose One Filing Method:

• Online Filing (Recommended)
• Mail Filing (Only if you have dependents or prefer paper)

Note: You must choose only one option—either mail or online. Not both.

Documents to Submit to USCIS:

• Filing Fee (Check the latest fee at USCIS.gov)
• Form I-539 – Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status
  • For online filing: fill it out directly on the USCIS website
  • For mailing: complete all 7 pages, print, and sign in blue or black ink
  • Optional: Include Form G-1145 for text/email updates if mailing
• Copy of Your Most Recent I-94 Record
             Retrieve your I-94 here
• Reinstatement I-20
  • Print and sign page 1
  • If mailing: include a copy (keep the original)
• Proof of Financial Support
  • Recent bank statements, scholarships, assistantships, or sponsor letters
• Evidence Supporting Reinstatement
  • Any documents that show the violation was unintentional and due to unforeseen circumstances
  • If it’s been more than 5 months, you’ll also need to prove exceptional circumstances
• Academic Records
  • Upload your transcript and proof of current enrollment

 

After You Apply

Within 2–4 Weeks

You’ll receive a Receipt Notice from USCIS:

• Online Filing: Receive the notice in your USCIS online account
• Mail Filing: Receive Form I-797C in the mail (takes up to 4 weeks)

Case Status

Check your case status at USCIS Case Status Online using your receipt number (no hyphens).

 

USCIS Decision

If Reinstated:

• You’ll receive an Approval Notice (Form I-797A) in the mail.
• Email a copy to your international office.
• You’ll receive a new I-20 for Continued Attendance, and your SEVIS record will be updated.

If Denied:

• You’ll be given a voluntary departure date (usually within 30 days).
• There is no appeal process.
• Contact your international office immediately with the denial notice to discuss your options.

 

Need Help?

We’re here to support you every step of the way.

Call us anytime at +1 510 876-0888
Or email your questions to [email protected]

Whether you’re unsure about your eligibility or need help putting your application together, personalized assistance is just a call or message away.