Student & Exchange Visitor Visas (F-1, J-1) Lawyer in Charlotte & Kinston, NC

F-1 Student Visa

The F-1 visa is the most common visa for full-time international students attending accredited schools, colleges, universities, seminaries, conservatories, or language training programs in the U.S.

• Must be enrolled full-time in a program approved by the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP)
• Proof of financial support for the duration of studies
• Strong ties to your home country and intent to return after studies
• Authorized to work part-time on campus; Optional Practical Training (OPT) available post-graduation

J-1 Exchange Visitor Visa

The J-1 visa is for individuals participating in approved cultural and educational exchange programs. It includes students, researchers, professors, medical trainees, and au pairs.

• Must be sponsored by an accredited U.S. organization or educational institution
• Often includes a home-country physical presence requirement after the program ends
• Work and study authorization depends on program rules
• Can include dependents (J-2 visa for spouse and children)

How We Help F-1 and J-1 Visa Applicants

At The Emory Law Firm, we simplify the legal process for international students and visitors while ensuring full compliance with U.S. immigration regulations.

• Review and preparation of visa application forms (DS-160, DS-2019, I-20)
• Interview coaching and document preparation for consular processing
• Help with SEVIS compliance and maintaining visa status
• Guidance on changing status to F-1 or J-1 from another visa
• Advice on work authorization, CPT, OPT, STEM extension, and travel
• Support for school transfers or reinstatement of status
• Assistance for J-1 waiver requests and transition to other visa categories

Maintaining F-1 or J-1 Visa Status

Maintaining legal immigration status is critical. Failing to comply with visa rules can result in termination of your SEVIS record and potential removal from the U.S. We provide ongoing support to help you:

• Maintain full-time enrollment
• Report address changes and employment updates properly
• Avoid unauthorized work or prolonged travel without guidance
• Navigate medical leave, academic dismissal, or school closures

Common Challenges We Solve

• Visa denials due to incomplete or incorrect documentation
• Delays or errors with I-20 or DS-2019 forms
• Concerns about student status after school transfer
• Difficulties returning to the U.S. after international travel
• J-1 home residency requirement waiver support

Serving Clients Across North Carolina and Beyond

We work with international students and exchange visitors attending institutions in Charlotte, Kinston, Raleigh, Greensboro, Durham, and all across North Carolina. Whether you’re currently overseas or already in the U.S., we can support your visa application, renewal, or change of status.

Why Choose The Emory Law Firm?

• ✅ Experienced with student and exchange visitor visa cases
• ✅ Fast, responsive, and personalized legal service
• ✅ Multilingual support for international clients
• ✅ Offices in both Charlotte and Kinston for statewide accessibility
• ✅ Commitment to your education and legal peace of mind

Schedule a Visa Consultation Today

Whether you’re preparing for your first student visa interview or need help maintaining legal status while studying in the U.S., The Emory Law Firm is here to guide and protect your future.

Charlotte Office
11020 David Taylor Dr, Suite 102
Charlotte, NC 28262
📞 (704) 371-4333

Kinston Office
2422 N Herritage Street
Kinston, NC 28501
📞 (704) 324-8500

Contact us today to schedule a consultation with a trusted F-1 and J-1 student visa lawyer in North Carolina.