tmangrenadier:
Hi guys. I am about to complete my Bachelors degree in Chemistry in the U.S and moving towards graduate school. I wanted to visit my family once during the summer before I am to begin graduate school next august. My visa has expired since 2013 but I have been in school. How tough is the visa interview in Nigeria for candidates who had their bachelors program in the U.S? I appreciate all feedback.

Thanks.

NaLaugh:


I don't imagine it should be "tough" if you adhered to all visa limitations during your bachelors.

If you've violated the rules, e.g non-renewal of visa (if required) then expect a steep process.

tmangrenadier:



Thank you for your feedback. It is my understanding that the F-1 visa expiration is no big deal as far as I was in school. My other question is, do you think my visa process will be steeper? because at some point during my bachelors, I participated in the Diversity Visa lottery when Nigeria was still eligible.

NaLaugh:


You would want to inquire directly from official sources, whether or not the non-renewal is an issue.
If it is, then make sure you take careful steps to address it officially before leaving the country, or you might have troubles returning.

Your past DV lottery application will have zero effect on any other visa application.

tmangrenadier:
Hi guys. I am about to complete my Bachelors degree in Chemistry in the U.S and moving towards graduate school. I wanted to visit my family once during the summer before I am to begin graduate school next august. My visa has expired since 2013 but I have been in school. How tough is the visa interview in Nigeria for candidates who had their bachelors program in the U.S? I appreciate all feedback.

Thanks.

cozybunch:



I do have a huge concern thou. Even when you are in school, you need to keep up with your immigration status. Being in school is one thing, being legal and keeping your immigration requirements is other.

Whoever tells you that it does not matter is not saying the truth. In their minds you have over stayed your immigration requirements. Yes you can even proof that you ' ve been in school all these why, but you will be asked why did you not renew your visa status.

It is a big concern if asked.

Good Luck.

ttmacoy:
The is a difference between the visa expiration date and the duration of status.

If he has been within the duration of his F1 status then he will be fine even if the visa has expired.

If he is outside his duration of status i.e. stopped full time education then he will have issues.


Perfectly do understand that. Not withstanding, it is still a concern. He has to prove his student status which would've been avoided if he renewed it.

If he goes home without sorting it out here, it becomes difficult with the consulate office in Nigeria. Little things that matters, could matter a lot.

Good Luck.

tmangrenadier:


Thanks for the replies. I understand that it would have been easier to renew before now. However, I am not leaving until i have been accepted into a graduate school and I have registered for classes and whatnot. That way, I will have a more compelling grounds for issuance of visa. Do you think that sounds reasonable?

NaLaugh:


I don't imagine it should be "tough" if you adhered to all visa limitations during your bachelors.

If you've violated the rules, e.g non-renewal of visa (if required) then expect a steep process.

tmangrenadier:


I applied for a phd program in chemistry. Normally, the tuition is waived for phd students and even health insurance. Do you guys think i would have to show bank statements as I normally would if i did not have any school financial help?