About F 1 renew

[herypatel]

hey
my self hiren
i got f 1 stamp in dec 18 2007
and i have only 2 years f1 visa , up to dec 31 2009
can u please tell me whats the procedure for extend f1 visa with new stamp.
i know i can apply for f1 extend but i just know like that they give me only new i 94 , but is there any chance to get new stamping without leaving usa. and no chance for multiple entry and opt approval without valid visa .

because u know i have visa still december 2009 only . and now if i go to home country for stamping might be less chance for approved .

so if there any ways to get chance to stamp here ,, ?
hows the possibility of going canada and maxico for stamping ?
because i was heard like us immigration strongly reccomand that its good if u back returns country for visa stamping ?

please answer me

[Ninevah]

You don't need to extend your visa if you are NOT going to leave US. You can extend your DS 2019 instead which is much more easier and can be done through your school.

If you need to leave the country, however, you need to get your extension. Check with the immigrations on the procedures and ask if you can apply somewhere local.

[herypatel]

ok i m going to extend DS 2019 ,, then can i get OPT without valid visa ....

[Ninevah]

What is OPT?
The visa is for entering the country. The DS 2019 is for staying in the country.

[herypatel]

OPT is stand for optional practical training .......
so after i completion of my ms i need to apply for opt session ,, for job
my graduate advisor told me like if u have no valid visa then i m not able to apply for OPT ....

[Ninevah]

I'm not sure but don't you have the right to stay in the country for 1 year after you graduate? Again, if you can extend your DS 2019 you should be able to stay in the country.

There should be somebody on your campus that knows visa procedures. Check with International Students Office (or whatever is called where you are).