International Student and Scholar Services | Nonimmigrant Intent
A key legal concept underlying both F and J status is that of nonimmigrant intent. F and J status is predicated on the assumption that the F or J status holder intends to return to his or her home country or country of last residence. Therefore, it is imperative that anyone holding F or J status maintains a residence abroad that they have no intention of abandoning. In plain English, you will often be asked to provide an overseas address as evidence of your ties to your home country. Every effort should be made to retain an address overseas as well as other ties (bank accounts, etc.) to that country.