ALLAN WERNICK: Falling out of student F-1 status not a bar to becoming permanent resident

Unlike most people here without lawful status, you are not subject to the dreaded “unlawful presence” bar to getting an immigrant visa if you need to travel abroad for a visa interview. F-1 students admitted with Duration of Status or D/S — as most are — are not punished simply for dropping out of school, staying here unlawfully after graduation, or working here without permission.