Hi all,

I am currently doing my PhD in a US university. My I-20 is valid till 2011, however my visa expires in June 2009. I am traveling to India in November. Is it possible for me to renew my F-1 visa in the Chennai consulate more than 8 months BEFORE its expiration date? Has anyone done this before? Are there rejections or any other trouble? I would really appreciate a quick response.

Thanks in advance!

If you are in US, your status is on I-20, but if you leave the country, your status is on your visa. Don't get confused between "status" and "visa". You extended your stay while you're in US is extending your "status" not visa.

In this case, your visa already expired. In order to return to US, you must apply for a new F-1. Normally if you have proof that you're still in school, plus valid I-20, it should not be a problem.

Hi,

Thank you for your reply. But I think I made a mistake in the question. My visa has not expired. I had meant to write 'June 2009' NOT June 2008. So, as of now my visa has not expired. I am going outside the US on travel in November 2008. So, is it possible for me to renew my visa during this visit which is more than 8 months before my visa expiration date?

Hi,

Thank you for your reply. But I think I made a mistake in the question. My visa has not expired. I had meant to write 'June 2009' NOT June 2008. So, as of now my visa has not expired. I am going outside the US on travel in November 2008. So, is it possible for me to renew my visa during this visit which is more than 8 months before my visa expiration date?

You don't need to apply for a new F-1, just make sure I-20 is valid and don't leave US longer than 5 months or you will fall out of status.

Hey Noneinview,

I was looking for an answer to the same question when I landed in this forum. Please do let me know if you find anything. I would really appreciate any help in this regard.

Thanks

Hi,

I am in the same situation can I apply for visa renewal 6 months before of my visa expiration date.