Student Visas

Many young people come to America as exchange students or students. They will continue their study at one of the numerous American Universities or Highschools and stay for a certain period of time or till they finish their studies. Since the Tourist Visa grants only a short-time stay and no possibility to study, they will have to apply for one of the Student Visas.

Mainly, there are three types of Student Visas: the F-1, M-1 and J-1 visa.The F-1 visa allows its holder to study at an American University. Other than exchange students, who only come to the U.S. for a certain period of time as visitors, students holding a F-1 visa are allowed to get an American degree. Exchange students will have to apply for a J-1 visa which is specifically designed for Exchange Visitors. Students coming to the U.S. pursueing classes and studies in a non-academic field will need a M-1 visa.

In order to apply for one of these Student Visas, the responsible college, university or institution needs to issue either an I-20 or a DS-2019 form. Having received this document, the student can eventually apply for a visa. Note that it is strongly advised to apply for the visa ahead of time to arrive in the United States on schedule.

The Green Card or any other Working Visas permits its holder to work in the U.S.; yet, the F-1, M-1 and J-1 visa does not. Students are only allowed to work on-campus e.g. as Teaching or Research Assistants. Students who want to work off-campus need to apply for a student work permit. In order to be able to apply for a student work permit, students have to have stayed in the U.S. for at least a year.

Read more about:
Working in America
Work Permit
Greencard Lottery
DV Lottery
American Embassy

Links: Immigration Office | Business Immigration | living and working in the USA | government green card lottery |