2024 Student Visa F, M , J

Student Visa

The United States is known for having the most advanced educational systems in the world.

This is why the Student Visa category is one of the most popular Visa categories and allows students of all ages to travel to the United States to further their education.

F-1M-1J-1
Who Can Apply?Academic studentsVocational studentsExchange visitors
Employment1st yr On-Campus (less than 20 hrs per week)Not eligible to work
Consult an attorney
OPTPre-completion and Post-completionPractical training only after CompletionSame as F-1 with Permission of the Sponsor
STEMYes______
Derivative FamilySpouse and children unmarried under 21 yrsSpouse and children unmarried under 21 yrsSpouse and unmarried children under 21 yrs
Derivitivee Visa CategoryF-2M-2J-2
Derivative EmploymentNot EligibleNot EligibleEligible with conditions
SSNYes___Yes
Change Of StatusYes While in USYes While in USYes While in US
State SpecificBased on the UniversityBased on the UniversityBased on the Program
Online StudyPartially accepted (Subject to change)___Partially accepted (Subject to change)

Visa Categories

Student Visa (F Visa)

Students who fit this category may apply to a wide range of academic institutions such as:

  1. University or College

  2. High School

  3. Elementary School (Private)

  4. Other Academic Institutions / Language Training

  5. Conservatory

  6. Seminary

It is important to note that only certain schools and universities are authorized to sponsor students for a Student Visa, so it is important to consult an Immigration Attorney prior to making an application to any school.

Generally, F-1 Visa is a two-step process.  First, the student must gain admission to the desired (qualified) school.  Once Admission is obtained, the school will generate an I-20.

Next, the required documents are submitted to the U.S. Embassy to seek an interview appointment for the Student Visa.  Our Law Firm strives to maximize the chances of our clientele to obtain a positive outcome.

While the main applicant may qualify for F-1 Visa, his/her spouse, and children (unmarried, under 21) may apply for F-2 Visa to accompany the Student.

Student Visa (M Visa)

The M-Visa process is much like F-Visa; however, M-Visa is obtained for non-academic or vocational schools.

In addition, the duration of the visa may be limited to the specific program you are seeking admission to.

When compared to F-Visa, there are substantial restrictions with extending or ­changing of M-Visa to another category, therefore careful planning is warranted.

Exchange Visitor (J Visa)

The following work/visitors may qualify for this particular visa category:

  1. Au pair and EduCare

  2. Camp Counselor

  3. Government Visitor

  4. Intern

  5. International Visitor (Department of State use)

  6. Physician

  7. Professor and Research Scholar

  8. Short-term Scholar

  9. Specialists

  10. Student (College/University)

  11. Student (Secondary)

  12. Summer Work Travel

  13. Teacher

  14. Trainee

The process is such that the J Visa applicant must first be accepted into an “exchange program.” The applicant must then take the necessary steps to schedule an interview appointment with U.S. Consulate in their home country.

J Visa holder’s spouse and minor children may qualify to accompany the applicant.  It is important to note that depending on the exchange program and some factors as determined by the U.S.

Department of State, some J-Visa holders may be subject to a two-year rule, where the applicant must return to his/her home country for at least two years upon completion of the exchange program curriculum, prior to being able to return to the United States.

Others may not be subject to this rule.  Furthermore, J-Visa holders may be subject to restrictions in their ability to change their visa status to another category, therefore careful analysis of all the factors is needed for long-term planning.

Do I qualify for Study Visa?

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