WORK VISAS TO THE UNITED STATES

INTERNATIONAL AND CULTURAL EXCHANGE VISA TO THE UNITED STATES

Persons abroad may enter the United States to participate in an international cultural exchange program designed to provide practical training, employment, and the sharing of the history, culture, and traditions of the participant’s country of nationality.

INTERNATIONAL AND CULTURAL EXCHANGE VISA BASIC REQUIREMENTS

The International and Cultural Exchange Visa requires applicants to obtain a Q Visa prior to entry and show that the purpose of their stay is to participate in an international cultural exchange program. Basic requirements include that the cultural exchange program is to take place in a school museum, business or other public forum. In addition, the cultural aspect must be an essential part of the participant’s employment and training, and must be designed to show the custom, history, heritage, philosophy and/or tradition of the participant’s country of nationality. Applicants may also be required to meet certain criminal and medical requirements.

INTERNATIONAL AND CULTURAL EXCHANGE VISA ENTITLEMENTS

Skilled (Work) Visa provides you with great flexibility to engage in various enjoyable activities during your temporary stay in the United States, including, tourism, travel throughout the country to all 50 states, attendance and/or participation in festivals, conferences, conventions, concerts, sporting and musical events. As well, you can visit with friends and family, or engage in short-term study.

A International and Cultural Exchange Visa is approved for the length of the program, or for 15 months, whichever is shorter. A visa holder who has spent 15 months in the United States may not be issued a visa or be readmitted under the Cultural Visa classification unless he or she has resided and been physically present outside the United States for at least 1 year.

Spouses and/or children under the age of 21 who wish to accompany or join the principal visa holder in the United States for the duration of his/her stay require derivative visa status. Spouses and children of visa holders may study in private or public schools in the United States without obtaining a Study Visa. Spouses may apply for work authorization if seeking employment for their duration of stay in the United States.