Maintaining Legal Status
Why is it important? Non-compliance can result in: ineligibility for employment, ineligibility to transfer to a new school, and the termination of the visa, etc. Major things to consider: Full course of study requirement Maintaining proper immigration documents and traveling with them! Avoiding criminal and disciplinary charges Following the regulations regarding employment Notifying the Office of International Affairs of a change of address
Full Course of Study Requirement Full course of study requirement: 12 credit hours Exception: Distance learning (online classes)
Travel Considerations Travel outside of the United States Students must ensure that their travel documents are up to date and valid. Travel signature Travel in the United States The US CBP has the authority to set up checkpoints and detain individuals within 100 miles of a US border or seacoast. Students should carry their original DS-2019 or I-20, passport and I-94 when they travel outside of Farmville.
Health Insurance International students must hold a valid health insurance policy while they are at Longwood. The Office of International Affairs must have a valid copy of the insurance card. A policy can be purchased from International Student Insurance or you can purchase your own policy International Student Insurance
On-Campus Employment Cannot be a “Federal Work Study” position Employment must be authorized Eligibility Must be in good academic standing Total employment is no more than 20 hours per week Cannot begin under 30 days start date on DS-2019
Off-Campus Employment (CPT) For F-1 visa students only Curricular Practical Training (CPT) Internship or practicum must authorize Must be an “integral part of an established curriculum” in the student’s field of study Can be paid by an employer
Off-Campus Employment (OPT) For F-1 visa students only Optional Practical Training (OPT) Office of International Affairs must authorize Allows students to work full-time for part-time for up to 12 months after completing their degree
Taxes Form All international students must complete, even if they have not received any income. I can help find tax resources
212(e) Home Country Residency Requirement If it applies to you, it will be specified on your visa. Requires you to live in your home country for two years before you can apply for an immigrant and certain categories of nonimmigrant visas. Makes you ineligible for a work visa but not for another student visa.
More Information Detailed information regarding all topics addressed in this handout and more can be found at:
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