Change from F2 to F1 status? Visa stamp already there

I am in the US on an F2 status. When I went to my home country a few months ago, I had the F1 visa stamped on my passport. I didn't enter the US as F1 because the earliest admission date had not arrived. I used my older F2 visa to enter the US.

Now, to change my status, I have the option of flying back to my country, or another country that I am allowed to enter, and coming back. That will be expensive. Can I go through US immigration without actually boarding a plane flying outside?

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How long does it take to change status from F2 to F-1?

\u27a2 Processing can take a long time (10-14 months). As F-2 dependent you may only enroll part-time while your application is pending. \u27a2 It only changes your status in the U.S. If you travel outside the U.S., you must apply for a new visa at a U.S. embassy or consulate before you can return.

Can you change F2 status?

Documentation NeededA cover letter (one page) requesting the change of status from your current status to F-2. This letter should include a brief explanation as why you wish to change to F-2 status. You should also provide a checklist of the documentation you are including in your application.

How long does it take to change status to F-1 visa?

Processing with USCIS can take 6 to 12 months plus mailing time or longer depending on USCIS processing times. While the application is pending you may not leave the United States.

How can I change my F2 visa to work visa?

Changing your visa statusYou can apply to change your status by filing Form I-539. You also have the option of changing your status from an F-2 visa to a different type of nonimmigrant visa such as an H-1B or an L-1 visa, which are both nonimmigrant and dual intent visas.

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Sources: Stack Exchange - This article follows the attribution requirements of Stack Exchange and is licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0.

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