F-1 REINSTATEMENT - URGENT HELP NEEDED !!!

[Dante001 0]

I am an F-1 student whose I-20 and I-94 have expired. I have not been able to renew them on time (obviously, due to extraordinary circumstances beyond my control).

I am currently trying to apply for reinstatement of my F-1 status with the help of FORM I-539.

The form requires the submission of the I-20 given by the school where one will study.

But in order to receive the I-20, the student needs to show the school a valid I-94 (which is what I am applying for with FORM I-539).

So here is my question:

How can a student have his F-1 status reinstated (I-94) if the I-20 he needs to provide with FORM I-539 cannot be given by the school unless he shows the school that same I-94 he is applying for ?

ANY HELPFUL CLARIFICATION ON THIS MATTER WILL BE GREATLY APPRECIATED !!!

Thank you.

[canadian_wife 1,822]

Have you spoken to the DSO at the school you are applying for?

Good luck

[Harsh_77 718]

I dont think you got right information, I dont think you need to show a valid I-94 in order to get an I-20.

I-20 is issued even before you enter US, which only shows a school is accpeting you and you met all their requirements.

I-94 would be given to you when you enter US, which will show when you entering US, on what visa and how long you can stay in US.

[Vuvu zela 9]

Your I-94 is valid for the duration of your stay.

If you look carefully on your I-94 you will see the letters: D/S (duration of stay)

As long as you are going to school, you don't need to renew your I-94.

Even if you fall out of status, you still don't need to renew it (I think)

All they need to do is to make sure you are back into SEVIS.

If you are out of status, that means you are not into SEVIS system anymore, because the school you are attending remove your number in the system, and you need to get back in very quickly.

ICE could be after you, if you don't handle this in a timely manner!

Talk to the international school official at your university.

He should be able to reinstate you.

Or at least guide you through the process.

Edited January 12, 2011 by Vuvu zela