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Zubayr Salatou

Posted 6 months ago

User
Hi everyone. I’m originally from Mali and came to the U.S. on an F1 student visa in 2023. I had to stop school due to personal and financial reasons last fall, and I’ve now been out of status for a little over 6 months. I didn’t apply for reinstatement earlier because I was unsure about my next steps and didn’t fully understand the consequences. Now, I’ve found a new school willing to accept me and issue a new I-20. Can I still apply for reinstatement at this point? Or is it too late and I’ll be forced to leave and try for a new visa abroad? I’ve never been in trouble with the law, and I really want to continue my studies here. Any help or guidance would mean a lot.
4 Responses
M

Mirela Bregu

Answered 6 months ago

User

Hey,

The general rule is that USCIS allows F1 reinstatement if you're out of status for less than 5 months, but in some cases, they do make exceptions beyond that if you can show that the delay was due to exceptional circumstances.


Since you're over the 5-month mark, your case becomes riskier.

That said, if you can document why you couldn’t apply earlier like serious financial hardship or personal health/family issues and show that you're now ready to resume full-time study, you might still have a chance.


However, you'll just keep your fingers crossed because approval in this case is not guaranteed.

Best of luck.

B

Brynhild Jensen

Answered 6 months ago

User

You might still be eligible for reinstatement if you can demonstrate that your status was terminated due to circumstances beyond your control and you've been pursuing a valid reason to return to school, but consulting an immigration attorney is highly recommended.


C

Chloe Morgan

Answered 6 months ago

User

Reinstatement is possible but uncertain after 6 months out of status; it's crucial to consult with an immigration lawyer to assess your specific situation and determine the best course of action, including potential risks and alternatives like departing the US and reapplying



A

Aadesh Chandekar

Answered 6 months ago

User

like earlier responses have rightly said... it's not looking so great right now.


At 6 months out of status, USCIS is likely to deny a reinstatement request. You’re past the 5-month limit, and they’re pretty strict. If they deny, that will be unlawful presence, and once it hits 180 days, you could face a 3-year bar if you leave the U.S.


I believe it may be safe to leave now if you haven't hit the 180 days bar. then apply for a new F1 visa from your home country, and come back.

That may work if consulates still don't see you as a violator.

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