American F1 Student Visa 2024; Conditions, documents and procedures for obtaining

The difference between F1 and J1 American visas; The difference between studying full-time and participating in educational exchange programs

Both F1 and J1 visas are non-immigrant visas that are issued to immigrate to America and study in this country. But the purpose, conditions and limitations of each one are different. In the following, we will examine the basic differences between these two types of visas:

• Differences in visa purpose:

– F1 visa is issued to students who intend to study full-time in accredited American educational institutions. These institutions include universities, colleges, language schools and private secondary schools.

– The American J1 visa is issued to participants in cultural and educational exchange programs. These programs can include research, teaching, internships, professional training and other cultural exchanges.

• Differences in the application process:

– In the F1 visa, students must be admitted to an accredited educational institution and receive the I-20 form. Then register in the SEVIS system and pay the SEVIS I-901 fee.

– In the J1 visa, applicants must be accepted by a host organization in America and receive the DS-2019 form. Enrollment in SEVIS and payment of the SEVIS I-901 fee is also required.

• Differences in financial conditions:

– In the F1 visa, applicants must show that they have the financial ability to cover the costs of education and living during the study period.

– In the J1 visa, the participants must also show the financial ability to cover their living expenses. But some costs may be covered by the host organization.

• The difference between work and professional activities:

– In the F1 visa, students can work up to 20 hours a week on campus and work full-time during the holidays. They can also apply for OPT (Optional Practical Training) after completing their studies.

– In the J1 visa, some J1 visa holders can work under special conditions and with the agreement of the host organization. The type and amount of work depends on the specific exchange program.

• The difference in the requirement to return to the country of origin:

– In the F1 visa, students usually have to return to their country after completing their studies, unless they have the conditions to change their status or receive another visa.

– Some J1 visa holders are subject to a two-year home stay rule, which means they must return to their home country and stay for two years before they can apply for some other types of US visas.

• The difference between companions and family members:

– In F1 visa, spouse and children under 21 years old of F1 students can get F2 visa. F2 visa holders are not allowed to study full-time or work.

– In J1 visa, spouse and children under 21 years of age of J1 participants can get J2 visa. J2 visa holders may be allowed to work, but require authorization from USCIS.

The differences between F and J visas reflect the different nature of each visa. The choice between them depends on the academic goals. Note that choosing the right visa can greatly affect your experience in the United States.