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Student Visas – At a Glance

F Visa – For students seeking to study at schools recognized by U.S. immigration authorities. Relevant for degree programs, private schools, English language programs, and more.

M Visa – For students enrolled in vocational or technical schools (mechanics, technicians, etc.).

A student visa allows lawful stay in the U.S. for the duration of the program for the student, their spouse, and children under 21.

Important to know:

A student visa does not automatically grant work authorization. Work authorization may be granted through OPT (Optional Practical Training), if the employment is directly related to the student’s field of study.

How to apply:

You may apply from Israel (requiring a consular interview), or by changing status within the U.S.

First, you must apply and be accepted to a school/program that is SEVP-approved (listed by U.S. immigration authorities). Once accepted, you must pay the SEVIS I-901 fee. The school will then issue you Form I-20, which outlines the program details, including its duration. (Your visa validity will be based on this information.)

If applying Outside of the USA:

After receiving Form I-20, you must schedule a consular interview (DS-160).

If applying from within the U.S.:

  • You must file a change of status application, based on Form I-20.
  • You may request Premium Processing, under which U.S. immigration
  • authorities commit to issuing a decision within 30 days.

“Live as if you were to die tomorrow. Learn as if you were to live forever.”
– Mahatma Gandhi

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Client Testimonials

"Hila guided me through the entire E-2 visa process with patience and expertise. From the business plan to the final approval, she made sure every detail was covered. Thanks to her, I was able to move to the U.S. and start running my business smoothly. I couldn't have done it without her support."

Testimonial by Yaron S., Tel Aviv, Israel – E-2 Visa

"Going through the VAWA process was one of the most difficult times in my life, but Hila made me feel supported and protected. She handled my case with professionalism and compassion, and because of her, I was able to get my green card and start over with confidence. I will always be grateful."

Testimonial by Dana M., Miami, FL – VAWA

"I wanted to join my wife in the U.S., and the green card process seemed overwhelming. Hila explained every step clearly and took care of all the paperwork. Thanks to her, our family is now together in the U.S., and the process went much faster than I expected."

Testimonial by Itay S., Ramat Gan, Israel – Family-Based Green Card

"As an Israeli entrepreneur expanding to the U.S., I needed someone who truly understands E-1 visas. Hila was amazing - she was knowledgeable, responsive, and always available to answer my questions. Because of her hard work, my E-1 visa was approved, and my business is now thriving in New York."

Testimonial by Amit Ben-David, Long Island, NY – E-1 Visa

"My wife and I filed for my green card through marriage, and Hila handled the adjustment of status process perfectly. She prepared us for the interview, helped us gather all the right documents, and everything went smoothly. We felt so reassured having her on our side."

Testimonial by Noam M., Las Vegas, NV

"Attorney Kaplan helped me through the toughest time of my life. Her patience, knowledge, and dedication brought my family back together. Forever grateful."