Status change L2 to F1

[luiz8232]

I had the visa L2 and changed to F1 to continue my studies here in US. I haven't been in my home country since then. Now I want to go on a trip to Europe. What do I need to do? Which documents do I need? Do I need to go to my home country (Brazil) before go to Europe? Or I can get the authorization here in US?

[kabkaba]

You will need to apply for F1 visa in a US consulate/embassy abroad. You can in principle apply in Europe while you are there, but because you are required to show lack of immigrant intent and ties to home country it may be better to apply in your home country. Note that there is always a small risk in F1 Visa application that you may be denied. Having property and family ties in your home country helps. Read the F Visa section of this website.