What do I do if my F-1 visa expires but I am still studying in the USA?

The F-1 visa stamp in your passport expiring while you are still in the USA is NOT a problem — you are still in valid immigration status. This is a common source of confusion.

F-1 visa vs. F-1 status:
- The visa stamp is for ENTRY into the USA. Once you are inside the country, the visa stamp is irrelevant — your I-20 and I-94 govern your status.
- Many students enter the USA on a 5-year or 10-year F-1 visa and their stamp expires while they are still studying. This is fine.
- Your I-20 expiry date is what matters for your stay.

What "duration of status" (D/S) means:
F-1 students are admitted for "D/S" — meaning you can stay as long as you are maintaining valid student status (enrolled full-time, making academic progress, following F-1 rules).

When you need to renew your visa stamp:
ONLY if you travel outside the USA and need to re-enter. You must have a valid, unexpired visa stamp to re-enter the USA (with limited exceptions for Canada/Mexico short trips).

How to renew your F-1 visa stamp:
Apply at a US Embassy or Consulate outside the USA. You will need:
- Current I-20 signed by your DSO (within the last 12 months)
- DS-160 application
- Visa interview
- Supporting financial and enrollment documents
You can do this in any country — you do not need to return to your home country.

If your I-20 expires: You must request a programme extension from your DSO before it expires if you are still enrolled. They will issue a new I-20.