Advice for New York F-1 Visa Holders

For thousands of international students, living in Manhattan and attending world-renowned institutions like NYU, Columbia University, or The New School is a dream come true. These students often arrive on an F-1 visa, a non-immigrant visa that allows them to pursue full-time academic studies in the United States. While the opportunities are vast, so too are the potential pitfalls that come with navigating immigration law as a student.

At Pozo Goldstein, LLP, our team of experienced immigration attorneys—many of whom are former immigration prosecutors and judges—have seen firsthand how easily even well-meaning students can fall out of status. As trusted New York immigration lawyers, we are here to offer guidance to help students protect their legal status and remain focused on their studies and future goals.

Understanding the F-1 Visa

The F-1 visa is a gateway to academic achievement in the United States, but it comes with strict requirements. To maintain legal status, students must:

• Be enrolled full-time at an accredited institution.
• Make normal progress toward completing their course of study.
• Not work off-campus without prior authorization.
• Notify the designated school official (DSO) of any changes, such as address or course load.

These requirements may sound straightforward, but life in Manhattan can be complex, and even small missteps can result in major immigration consequences.

Common Immigration Pitfalls for F-1 Students in Manhattan

1. Unauthorized Employment
Manhattan is filled with exciting opportunities, and students often want to gain experience and earn income to help offset the city’s high cost of living. However, working without proper authorization—even for a few hours—can jeopardize a student’s visa status. While on-campus employment is allowed up to 20 hours per week during the academic term, off-campus work requires special authorization such as Optional Practical Training (OPT) or Curricular Practical Training (CPT). Engaging in unauthorized employment is one of the fastest ways to lose F-1 status.

2. Dropping Below Full-Time Enrollment
Whether due to academic struggles, personal issues, or a simple scheduling error, dropping below full-time enrollment without approval from the DSO can be grounds for termination of student status. This is particularly important at competitive institutions like Columbia and NYU, where academic rigor is intense. If students are struggling, they should consult their school and an immigration attorney before making any course load changes.

3. Failing to Report Address Changes
F-1 students are required to report any change in their U.S. address to their school within 10 days. In the hustle of moving apartments in a fast-paced city like Manhattan, it’s easy to forget. However, failing to report an address change can have serious immigration consequences. Students should ensure their SEVIS records are up to date at all times.

4. Misunderstanding Grace Periods and Visa Expiration
Many students assume that the expiration date on their F-1 visa is the same as the date they must leave the U.S., but this is not always true. Students are generally allowed to remain in the U.S. for 60 days after completing their program, but overstaying this period—even unknowingly—can lead to bans on reentry. A Manhattan student visa lawyer can help clarify these timelines and avoid unlawful presence issues.

5. Ignoring Immigration Issues During a Leave of Absence
Some students may need to take a break from their studies due to health or family emergencies. However, a leave of absence must be properly reported and coordinated with both the school and USCIS. Leaving the country without the proper documentation or failing to maintain visa status during a leave can lead to reentry problems.

How Pozo Goldstein, LLP Can Help

At Pozo Goldstein, LLP, we understand the dreams and pressures international students face. With offices conveniently located in New York City, our team of New York immigration lawyers works closely with students and their families to help them understand their legal rights, maintain F-1 status, and avoid the hidden traps of the U.S. immigration system.

Our attorneys have extensive experience working with students from NYU, Columbia, The New School, and other Manhattan-based institutions. Whether you need help applying for OPT, transferring schools, changing visa status, or resolving a status violation, we offer personalized and strategic legal support tailored to your goals.

What to Do If You’re Facing a Visa Issue

If you believe your immigration status may be at risk—or if you simply want to ensure you’re doing everything right—it’s wise to consult a knowledgeable Manhattan student visa lawyer. Even a small mistake can have long-term effects on your ability to study, work, or remain in the U.S.

Don’t wait until it’s too late. At Pozo Goldstein, LLP, we take pride in protecting the rights and futures of international students living and studying in New York City. We combine legal skill with compassionate representation to guide you every step of the way.

Contact Our Manhattan Student Visa Lawyer Today

If you are an international student living in Manhattan and have questions about your visa, status, or work authorization, reach out to Pozo Goldstein, LLP. Our team is ready to assist with any immigration matter and will fight to keep your future on track.

Call us today at 212-201-9031 to schedule a consultation with a trusted New York immigration lawyer and discover how we can help you stay compliant and confident during your time in the U.S.