1. What is the difference between an F-1 and J-1 visa?
An F-1 visa is a nonimmigrant visa granted to international students who will pursue full-time studies in the United States, while a J-1 visa is a nonimmigrant visa granted to exchange visitors participating in programs that promote cultural exchange. The key difference between the two visas is that with an F-1 visa, the student will be enrolled in a university or educational institution, while with a J-1 visa, the exchange visitor will be participating in a student exchange program, research program, internship or other type of exchange program.
2. How long are F-1 and J-1 visas valid for?
F-1 visas are generally valid for the duration of a student’s study program, plus an additional 60 days to allow for departure from the U.S. J-1 visas are typically valid for the length of a student’s exchange program, plus 30 days for departure.
3. What are the requirements for securing an F-1 or J-1 visa?
The requirements for securing an F-1 or J-1 visa vary depending on the purpose of the travel and country of origin. Generally, the applicant must demonstrate that they have a valid passport, proof of financial support to cover tuition and living expenses while studying in the US, a valid Form I-20 for F-1 visa applicants or a valid DS-2019 form for J-1 visa applicants, a completed DS-160 visa application form, proof of ties to the home country, evidence of English language proficiency, and a valid SEVIS fee payment receipt. In addition, those applying for an F-1 or J-1 visa must prove that they are coming to the US as a student or scholar and not as an immigrant.
4. How much does an F-1 or J-1 visa cost?
The cost of an F-1 or J-1 visa is $160. Additionally, applicants may need to pay an additional visa issuance fee, depending on their home country.
5. Are there any restrictions on employment with an F-1 or J-1 visa?
Yes, there are several restrictions when it comes to employment with an F-1 or J-1 visa. The primary restriction is that the employment must be directly related to the student’s area of study. Additionally, the student must obtain permission from the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services before starting any kind of employment, and their hours must be limited to a certain amount per week.
6. What kind of health insurance is required for an F-1 or J-1 visa holder?
F-1 and J-1 visa holders are required to have health insurance that meets the minimum requirements set by the U.S. Department of State. This health insurance must include medical benefits of at least $100,000 per accident or illness, repatriation of remains in the amount of $25,000, and expenses associated with the medical evacuation of the exchange visitor to their home country in the amount of $50,000.
7. Are there any limitations on the duration of stay for F-1 or J-1 visa holders?
Yes, there are limitations on the duration of stay for F-1 and J-1 visa holders. F-1 visa holders are usually allowed a maximum of 12 months for academic studies. J-1 visa holders are usually allowed a maximum of 18 months for academic studies. However, for certain exchange visitor programs, the duration of stay may vary.
8. Can an F-1 visa holder apply for a green card?
Yes, an F-1 visa holder can apply for a green card. The process is often referred to as “adjustment of status” and requires a sponsorship or employment offer from an employer.
9. Can a J-1 visa holder apply for a green card?
Yes, J-1 visa holders can apply for a green card. Depending on the type of J-1 visa, the process and requirements can vary. Generally, J-1 visa holders will need to apply for a waiver of the two-year home residence requirement before applying for a green card.
10. Are there any restrictions on the type of studies that can be conducted with an F-1 or J-1 visa?
Yes, there are some restrictions on the type of studies that can be conducted with an F-1 or J-1 visa. For example, F-1 visa holders can only pursue academic studies and must maintain full-time enrollment while in the United States. J-1 visa holders are typically required to be in a program sponsored by the U.S. Department of State, and the type of program must be related to their academic specialty or career goals. Additionally, F-1 and J-1 visa holders must adhere to any other restrictions or regulations set forth by their school or program sponsor.
11. Are there any restrictions on the type of research that can be conducted with an F-1 or J-1 visa?
Yes. F-1 visa holders can only conduct research related to their academic program, and J-1 visa holders can only conduct research related to their research exchange program. Additionally, both F-1 and J-1 visa holders must obtain permission from their respective academic institution or sponsoring organization before engaging in research activities.
12. Is it possible to extend an F-1 or J-1 visa after it has expired?
Yes, it is possible to extend an F-1 or J-1 visa after it has expired. Extensions may be requested if the student is still enrolled in their program and needs more time to complete their program of study. Depending on the student’s situation, the extension process may be easier or more difficult. It is important to contact an experienced immigration attorney for more information and guidance in the process.
13. Is it possible to transfer from one visa type to another (e.g., from F-1 to J-1)?
Yes, it is possible to transfer from one visa type to another. The process involves submitting an application for a change of status with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). However, approval of such requests is subject to the discretion of the USCIS and is not guaranteed.
14. Is it possible to change the location of study or research with an F-1 or J-1 visa?
Yes, it is possible to change the location of study or research with an F-1 or J-1 visa. However, you must first obtain permission from the school or program you are currently attending before transferring your visa. You must also apply for a new visa for your new location before you can begin studying or researching there.
15. Are there any restrictions on taking part in cultural activities with an F-1 or J-1 visa?
Yes, there are restrictions on taking part in certain cultural activities with an F-1 or J-1 visa. Most notably, students on an F-1 or J-1 visa are not allowed to work off-campus without authorization from the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Depending on the type of cultural activity, it may also be necessary to obtain special permission from your school or program sponsor and/or the USCIS. Additionally, international students may be subject to certain laws and regulations of the country in which they are studying, and should familiarize themselves with their school’s policies in this regard.
16. Are there any restrictions on obtaining employment authorization with an F-1 or J-1 visa?
Yes, there are several restrictions on obtaining employment authorization with an F-1 or J-1 visa.
– F-1: F-1 students are generally not allowed to work off-campus during their first academic year, but may be eligible for employment authorization for practical training after their first year. This includes curricular practical training (CPT), optional practical training (OPT), and other types of experiential learning programs sponsored by the school. The length and type of authorization depends on the particular program.
– J-1: J-1 students may work on-campus up to 20 hours per week during academic terms, and full-time during vacation periods. They may also be eligible for employment authorization for academic training, which is directly related to the student’s field of study and commensurate with their educational level.
17. Are there any restrictions on traveling outside the U.S. with an F-1 or J-1 visa?
Yes, there are restrictions on traveling outside the U.S. with an F-1 or J-1 visa. The student must obtain a travel signature from their Designated School Official (DSO) before travelling outside the U.S. The travel signature must be valid for one year, and it must be obtained every time the student leaves and re-enters the U.S. In addition, students must also carry with them all necessary documentation, such as their Form I-20 or DS-2019, passport, visa, and other supporting documents.
18. Are there any restrictions on bringing family members along with an F-1 or J-1 visa holder?
Yes. For an F-1 visa holder, the family members must have an F-2 visa and must be dependent on the primary visa holder. For a J-1 visa holder, the family members must have a J-2 visa and must be dependent on the primary visa holder.
19. Does having an F-1 or J-1 visa affect taxes in the U.S.?
Yes. F-1 and J-1 visa holders are considered to be nonresident aliens for tax purposes. As a result, they may be subject to different tax obligations than U.S. citizens and permanent residents. They must file a tax return if they have U.S.-sourced income, and may be subject to special withholding requirements.
20. What is the process for applying for a change of status from one visa type to another (e.g., from F-1 to J-1)?
The process for applying for a change of status from one visa type to another can vary depending on the circumstances. Generally, applicants must file form I-539, Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status, with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Applicants must also provide the relevant supporting documents and applicable fees. Depending on the visa type, applicants may need to submit additional forms or evidence. It is important to note that USCIS may require an applicant to appear for an in-person interview at a local USCIS office. It is also important to note that a change of status may not be granted if the applicant has violated any terms and conditions of his/her current immigration status.