U.S. Visa Types and Requirements for F-1 Students in the U.S.
As an international student studying in the U.S., you may wonder, “What visa do I need to legally work in the country?” It can sometimes get a bit confusing, especially when trying to understand the specific requirements for the different visa types. You may also have questions about the process of a green card (permanent residence).
There are generally four kinds of visa types for international students. These are known as F1 visa, J1 visa, M1 visa and H1B visa. All four of these visas have specific purposes, benefits, and limitations that differ from one another.
In this post, we will explore all visa types and their requirements.
Different U.S. Visa Types Available for International Students
Generally, 4 kinds of visas are available for international students in the U.S. These are:
F-1 Visa
An F1 visa, also known as a “student visa” or “F” visa, is an academic visa. It is generally given to those who wish to enter the United States with educational intentions. In other words, you must have an F1 visa to study in the US. F1 visas are arguably the most common form of visas for international students.
F1 visa holders can work part-time (20 hours per week) under on-campus employment. Moreover, you may also go for OPT (Optional Practical Training). However, OPT will only be eligible for you up to one year after completion of your degree.
The USCIS website discusses in detail for the F1 visa requirements and step-by-step process of applying for it. To sustain your F1 visa, you must maintain the minimum course load for full-time student status. You will also be expected to complete your studies within the expiration date on your I-20 form.
Note: M1 visa is also considered a “student visa.” However, M1 visas have more limitations than F1 visas in terms of eligibility.
H-1B Visa
According to the US Department of Labour, the H-1B visa program applies to employers seeking to hire nonimmigrant people as workers in speciality occupations or as fashion models of distinguished merit and ability.
With the help of sponsoring US employers, international students can expect to transfer their F-1 student visa status to an H-1B status. This will allow you to work and live in the US for up to 6 years. Like OPT and STEM OPT extensions, you must be deemed eligible by the USCIS.
To be eligible, you need to qualify as an experienced candidate for the position you aim for (it must be the same as your field of study). Furthermore, your employer should file a labour condition with the Department of Labor (ensuring fair work hours & wages). After completing 5 years of employment in the same company, you can request your employer to file for an employment-based permanent residency.
Note: Changing your job within 6 years will result in re-applying for the H-1B visa.
Explore our H1B Complete Guide to understand the application process.
J1 Visa
J1 visas are for students who cannot obtain the practical training required to complete their degree or academic program in their home country due to unavailability. You will be allowed to work under equal employment on an F1 visa as long as your exchange visitor program sponsor permits you.
J1 visas have specific requirements according to different criteria. To better understand the different requirements, it is best to check the US travel state government website, which discusses in detail the specific requirements and step-by-step process of applying for a J1 visa.
M1 Visa
M1 visa or “M” visa is a nonimmigrant student visa that allows foreign students entry to the US to take part in vocational or non-academic studies. Unlike F1 visas, you will not be allowed to work during your stay. You will be allowed to stay in the US for up to six months on a part-time basis.
If you possess an M1 visa, you will not be able to register for any academic courses either. Therefore this option is not good for those who are looking to study for a degree or attain permanent residency in the US. M1 visa is generally granted for a period of one year, but you can apply for an extension of up to three years.
You must be able to show proof of financial stability to be deemed eligible for an M1 visa. This is done so that the government knows you are capable of funding all expenses during your stay in the US.
What Is a Green Card?
Most non-natives in the US who plan on staying permanently will try to obtain a green card. This allows them to find employment anywhere in the US, receive financial benefits, and permanently reside in the country. In other words, it will allow you to live and work lawfully in the US while also qualifying yourself for US citizenship after three to five years.
As an international student in the US, it will automatically be easier for you to receive your green card permit. However, it is still very high in demand and therefore is difficult to obtain, often taking several years.
Applying for a Green Card
There are several ways to apply for a green card, such as being sponsored by an employer, being sponsored by relatives who are business owners, participating in US military services, receiving parent/child sponsorship, etc. Visit this in-depth Green Card Eligibility guideline on the USCIS website before applying.
General Tips When Applying for Your Visa
admission policies for your desired university, including academic eligibility and financial requirements, etc., and polishing a few of your soft skills. Below, we discuss some things you may want to keep in mind before applying.
Academic Requirements
All colleges in the US have different requirements. This is why you should do your research and try to figure out whether you are an eligible candidate for your desired school.
Financial Requirements
Colleges may generally require you to show evidence of financial stability. This is to ensure that you can fund yourself during your stay in the US without having to be employed there.
Making a Good Initial Impression
You must be able to communicate your thoughts and cause as little confusion as possible during your interview. The sheer volume of applications received by consular officers leads them to conduct quick and efficient interviews. In most cases, the decision made by them is made based on the first few minutes of the interview.
Health Insurance
If you are an individual who requires any form of medical assistance, then it is important to have proof of health insurance to ensure that your medical expenses are covered accordingly. You may have to show this evidence regardless of needing medical assistance, should you need it later on.
Apply Early
Try your best to apply as early as possible. Leaving all the paperwork and documentation for the last minute will only cause you to panic and potentially postpone the process entirely. To avoid any last-minute errors/misplaced documents, it is best to apply early.
FAQs
How long can I stay in the US after graduation?
If you are an F1 visa holder, you can expect to stay in the US for upwards of 60 days after the program end date stated on your Form I-20. If you are an M1 and J1 visa holder, you can stay up to 30 days after the program end date according to your Form I-20. However, you can also extend these dates by requesting a visa extension through the USCIS website.
Can I change my visa status?
You can change your visa status by requesting to change your nonimmigrant status via USCIS. You must get in touch with your school’s DSO (Designated School Official), as they will be able to help you through the process and be aware of any changes to your nonimmigrant status.
Can I easily get a Green Card after studying in the US?
You can be eligible to apply for a green card if you are an international student studying in the US. However, the process isn’t straightforward. You might choose to take an H1B to the Green Card path as well.
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