Miami Student Visa (F-1/M-1) Lawyers
Last updated on October 1, 2026
You have been accepted to a Miami school, or you are already on campus, and the immigration paperwork feels heavier than your coursework. Immigration counsel in Spanish is available at Canizares Law Group, LLC, and our founding attorney came to the U.S. as an immigrant herself.
Because our attorneys focus on naturalization and citizenship, they plan past graduation, guiding students through every step from first application to long-term residency.
Understanding F-1 And M-1 Student Visas For Miami Universities
The F-1 visa covers academic study at universities, colleges and English language programs. The M-1 visa covers vocational or technical training, like aviation or culinary programs. Whether you plan to enroll at FIU, UM or MDC, your program decides which visa fits.
Once you arrive, keeping lawful status means a full course load, a current I-20 and working only as your status allows. You must also report address changes to your designated school official within 10 days.
Many students wonder whether they need a Miami student visa lawyer at all. Plenty of applications go smoothly. When a visa is denied, a class is dropped or a transfer goes wrong, an F-1 visa lawyer in Miami can review your record and explain your options.
Essential Requirements: Form I-20, SEVIS And Financial Proof
A strong application starts with complete documents. Consular officers review each one, and a gap can delay your start date. These are the core items every F-1 and M-1 applicant needs:
- Form I-20: Your school issues this form after admission. It confirms your program, dates and estimated costs.
- SEVIS fee: You pay the I-901 fee for the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) before your visa interview.
- Financial proof: Bank statements, scholarship letters or sponsor affidavits must show you can cover at least your first year of tuition and living costs.
You will also complete the DS-160 application and attend a consular interview. Our attorneys can review your documents first, in Spanish or English.
What Are My Options To Stay In The U.S. After My Student Visa Expires?
F-1 graduates can often apply for up to 12 months of Optional Practical Training (OPT) in their field. USCIS outlines work rules for F-1 and M-1 students.
Long-term, a change of status from F-1 to a green card usually requires an employer or family sponsor. Our immigration legal services continue past the green card to naturalization.
Contact A Miami Student Visa Attorney Today
Missing the OPT filing deadline can cost you the chance to work after graduation. If you need an OPT visa attorney in Florida or an immigration attorney for international students who speaks Spanish, call 305-686-3187 or request a consultation with our attorneys.