STUDENT VISA TO THE UNITED STATES

UNIVERSITY/COLLEGE STUDENT (J-1) VISA

The University/College Student Visa allows foreign post-secondary students whose education is being financed by a government agency to come to the United States to engage in degree-granting or non-degree granting programs. During their studies, certain students may engage in academic training, which enhances their studies in their major area of interest.

Spouses and unmarried children under 21 years of age may accompany the applicant to the US. Spouses of the applicant may accept employment in the US upon approval of a work authorization application. Children of the applicant may attend primary and secondary school, and they may also accept employment upon approval of a work authorization application.

DO I QUALIFY FOR A VOCATIONAL STUDENT VISA (M-1) TO THE US?

Our Free Visa Eligibility Assessment is designed to instantly determine if you are eligible to apply for a University/College Student (J-1) Visa to the US. This assessment uses the criteria set by the US Citizenship and Immigration Services. It is the most comprehensive and technologically advanced online Migration Assessment tool available.

UNIVERSITY/COLLEGE STUDENT VISA (J-1) BASIC REQUIREMENTS

Foreign post-secondary students are eligible to participate in this program if, at any time during their studies, they or their program is financed by the US government, the government of their home country or an international organization of which the US is a member.

Before applying for a J-1 visa abroad, applicants must first apply and be accepted to a college or university in the United States as well as to a sponsoring organization, which may be one and the same. Students must also show proof of sufficient funds to cover expenses while in the US. In addition, students must maintain their residence abroad and show proof of binding ties to ensure return to their home country. Applicants may also be required to meet certain health and character requirements.

UNIVERSITY/COLLEGE STUDENT VISA (J-1) ENTITLEMENTS

University/college students may engage in degree-granting programs until completion or non-degree granting programs for no more than 24 months. Because applicants’ programs are financed by a government or government agency, upon completion of the program, applicants must return to their home country for two years unless a waiver is received, allowing applicants to change status and remain in the US.

Spouses and unmarried children under 21 years of age may accompany the applicant to the US upon approval of the relevant visas. Spouses of the applicant may accept employment in the US upon approval of a work authorization application. Children of the applicant may attend primary and secondary school, and they may also accept employment upon approval of a work authorization application.

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