US Warns Foreign Students on Visa Overstay Consequences

The US Department of State has issued a warning to foreign students studying in the United States on an F visa regarding their immigration status after completing their studies. Students are required to leave the country within 60 days of the end date of their program as recorded on their Form I-20, which includes any authorized practical training period.

Failing to depart within this timeframe places a student "out of status" under American immigration law, resulting in their visa being automatically voided according to Section 222(g) of the Immigration and Nationality Act. This voiding means that any multiple-entry visa canceled due to overstaying will not be valid for future travel to the United States.

Additionally, overstaying may render a student ineligible for future US visas under certain circumstances, posing significant challenges for those wishing to return for work, tourism, or further studies. Students needing more time may request an extension of stay through US Citizenship and Immigration Services before their authorized period expires.