The differences and functions of I-20, Visa and Passport.

Many students easily confuse studying abroad. I-20, Visa, and PassportAlthough they have similar names, their functions and uses are completely different. Understanding the three is crucial.It helps with a smooth application process, maintaining legal status, and planning your studies and life.

1. I-20: Identification document for international students' admission and status

The full name of I-20 is Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status.(Proof of eligibility for non-immigrant student status)The I-20 is issued by the school to international students.Official documentsThis document proves that you have been admitted as a full-time student. It will include your name, school, program, semester, tuition fees, source of funds, and SEVIS number.

It isRequired documents for applying for an F-1 or J-1 visa.You were also in the United StatesThe core document for maintaining legal student status.

2. Visa: U.S. Visa

A visa is a permit issued to you by the U.S. government.Allows you to enter the United States at specific times, for specific purposes, and under specific conditions.For international students, the most common visa types are the F-1 student visa and the J-1 exchange visitor visa.Visas are usually affixed to the passport.The information on it includes the visa type, validity period, number of entries, etc.

It is important to note thatA visa only indicates that you are eligible to apply for entry into the United States.This does not mean you have obtained the right to stay in the United States; you still need to go through [a certain process] to enter the country.Customs review。

3. Passport: Your international identity card

Passport is for studentsOfficial documents issued by the national governmentTo prove yourNationality and identityIt is a basic document for traveling abroad, applying for visas, and entering the country.

The passport must be valid, usually at leastMaintain a validity period of more than six months during your stay in the United States
The visa will be affixed to your passport.Therefore, a passport is the document that carries your visa and entry permit.
Passport lost or damagedThis will directly affect your status for going abroad and studying abroad, so please keep it safe.

In short, the I-20, visa, and passport constitute the three layers of protection for an international student's status.The absence of any one of these could affect your study abroad plans:Without an I-20, you cannot apply for a visa; without a visa, you cannot travel to the United States; and without a passport, you cannot leave the country.

Within the United States, which method should be considered to maintain status?

After entering the country, the key to maintaining international students' status is their I-20 and SEVIS system status.Passports and visas are merely supplementary documents.

passport

Prove yourNationality and identityStill essential, used forVisa renewal, exit and re-entry, or other identity mattersHowever, it does not determine your legal student status in the United States.

visa

For entry into the United StatesOnce you enter the United States, an expired visa will not affect your legal status there.As long as the I-20 is valid, you can continue your studies in the United States.A visa only becomes effective when you leave and re-enter the country.

I-20

The proof that truly maintains your student status after entry.This includes your student status in the US, semester status, program, and expected graduation date.

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