Woodside, NY asked in Immigration Law for New York

Q: DO I need to leave the country before starting school?

From Switzerland, I came here 2 and and half month ago with an ESTA(tourist visa). I applied to school and got accepted. I am now in the USA.

Back in 2012, I got a student visa valid until 2017. My school is now doing my I 20. Once I get it, do I need to leave and re enter the country with my student visa?

Or can I stay and just start school?

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1 Lawyer Answer
Shan Dimitris Potts
Shan Dimitris Potts
Answered
  • Immigration Law Lawyer
  • Glendale, CA

A: You should talk to your school DSO about this. In most situations a COS petition would be enough but it may be different in your situation. So get in touch with your school and get your questions answered.

All the best.

-Shan Potts

Like our facebook page for regular immigration and visa updates - www.facebook.com/pottsmartinez

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