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Study & Visit

Make your next trip a well-prepared one.

A degree, an exchange program, a business meeting, and a family holiday have different rules. Start with what you plan to do in the U.S., not just how long you want to stay.

YOUR PLANS, EXPLAINED SIMPLY

Your main activity sets the direction.

A visitor visa is not a general work or study permit. Ask which activities are allowed before accepting a job or enrolling in a course.

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EXPLORE YOUR SITUATION

Different plans. Different requirements.

03 routes explained
01F-1

I want to study at a U.S. college or academic program.

For eligible academic study at an approved school. After admission, the school issues the Form I-20 used in the student visa process.

What to check

School admission and visa approval are separate. Work is limited to activities allowed under the student rules.

Bring to the conversationYour school offer, course plans, funding, and what you plan to do after studying.

Read the F-1 guide
02J-1

I have an exchange, research, or approved training opportunity.

For a program run by a designated exchange sponsor. The sponsor issues Form DS-2019; the program category determines what you may do.

What to check

Some participants face a two-year home-country physical-presence requirement. Ask whether it applies to your program.

Bring to the conversationYour sponsor, program category, dates, funding, and any work the program includes.

Read the J-1 guide
03B-1 / B-2

I want to visit family, take a holiday, or attend business meetings.

B-1 covers certain temporary business activities; B-2 covers tourism and visits. These are not permission to take a U.S. job.

What to check

Visa validity and the length of an admitted stay are different. The admission record determines your authorized stay.

Bring to the conversationYour trip purpose, expected length, budget, and plans to return home.

Read the B-1 / B-2 guide
BEFORE YOU SPEAK WITH SOMEONE

A few details make the advice more useful.

You can start with the basics. These questions help a professional understand what you need.

  1. What is the main purpose of your trip?
  2. Do you have a school admission or exchange sponsor?
  3. How long do you plan to stay and how will you pay?
  4. Will your plans include any work, training, or formal study?
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COMMON QUESTIONS
Can I use a visitor visa for full-time study?

Generally, full-time academic study needs the appropriate student status. A short recreational class during a visit is a different situation; check before enrolling.

What if I want practical or vocational training?

The program details matter. Vocational study may involve M-1, while some training falls under an approved J-1 program. Ask the school or sponsor which category it supports.

This is general information, not a decision about your eligibility. Requirements and procedures can change. A licensed attorney or accredited representative can review your circumstances.

Go deeper with official information

Check the government guidance when planning your next step.

Student visas, including vocational study ↗Exchange programs ↗Visitor activities and limits ↗

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