Experienced Immigration Attorney New York Status Change

The client entered the United States approximately two years prior on an F-1 student visa to enroll in a master’s degree program at a New York based educational institution certified under the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP).

During the academic period, the client maintained full time enrollment and complied with all reporting requirements under 8 C.F.R. § 214.2(f), which governs F-1 student status.

The institution’s authority to enroll international students was consistent with federal SEVIS requirements and New York State Education Law provisions regulating degree granting institutions.

No unauthorized employment or status violations occurred during the course of study, which became a critical foundation for subsequent immigration planning.

An experienced immigration attorney conducted a comprehensive review of the client’s immigration history, academic records, and intended future activities.

The analysis focused on eligibility for a change of status pursuant to Section 248 of the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA), codified at 8 U.S.C. § 1258, which permits certain nonimmigrants to change status while remaining in the United States.

Special attention was given to timing rules, maintenance of status, and the distinction between immigrant intent and nonimmigrant intent, which is frequently scrutinized in post student cases.

New York specific considerations included the client’s physical presence, lawful residence, and compliance with local institutional and employment regulations.

The attorney explained each procedural step in detail, including applicable USCIS forms, supporting documentation, and expected adjudication timelines.

All filings were prepared in accordance with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services regulations and policies, with careful attention to lawful presence requirements under INA § 212(a)(9)(B).

Supporting evidence demonstrated the client’s continued compliance with U.S. Law, educational completion in New York, and legitimate purpose for remaining in the country.

No aspects of Korean law were referenced, as the matter was analyzed exclusively under U.S. Federal law and New York applicable regulations.

As a result of the approved change of status, the client avoided unlawful presence and preserved eligibility for future immigration benefits under U.S. Law.

The case demonstrates how accurate legal guidance, grounded in the Immigration and Nationality Act and corresponding federal regulations, can resolve uncertainty for international graduates in New York.

Importantly, this matter did not involve any criminal allegations, violations, or conduct that could constitute a crime under New York law or federal law.

The case was purely administrative and regulatory in nature, involving lawful immigration planning and compliance.