Can I travel to the US on a F1 visa to attend a funeral?
I have a valid F1 visa and I want to travel to the US for 2 weeks. My intent is not to study but to visit my best friend who recently lost her boyfriend and to attend his funeral. I read that it takes up to 72 hours to get the application for an ESTA accepted and I need to travel before the 72 hours. So my question is can I travel on the F1 visa that expires in a year (I graduated from the USA last summer) or do I need the ESTA? Do I apply for the ESTA even though it may not be approved in time? I am from the UK.
Best Answer
Yes, you need the ESTA.
Traveling for a funeral is not a valid purpose for an F1 student visa.
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Can I enter the US with an F-1 visa?
Students on F or M visas are not permitted to enter the United States earlier than 30 days before the start date of their program. If you wish to enter earlier than 30 days before your start date, you must separately apply and qualify for a visitor (B) visa.How do I get a US visa for a funeral?
How to ApplyHow do you bring a relative to the US to visit?
Passport valid for travel to the United States \u2013 Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your period of stay in the United States (unless exempt by country-specific agreements). Each individual who needs a visa must submit a separate application, including any family members listed in your passport.What is considered an emergency visa?
Emergency visas refer to visas issued only if you need to travel to a specific country for an emergency. You usually need to submit some type of proof of your emergency to be considered for an emergency visa, such as documentation backing up your case.Getting a Visa to Attend a Funeral in the U.S.
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Answer 2
ESTA is needed.
In order to prevent F1 visa usage for reasons unrelated to the study, F1 visa must be accompanied by a proper visa document (I-20) and valid, current SEVIS record (created by your school designated official, maintained by the CBP/ICE). Since you have graduated, your I-20 is invalid, and your electronic record in SEVIS has been terminated.
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