US Student Visa Consultants In Bengaluru

The U.S. student visa system, including the F and M visa categories, serves as a gateway for international students aiming to study in the United States. The F-1 Student Visa, the more common of the two, is designed for those enrolling in academic programs at accredited institutions, while the M-1 Student Visa is for students pursuing vocational or non-academic studies. These visas provide access to quality education and valuable cultural experiences. For expert guidance and a smooth application process, US Student Visa Consultants in Bengaluru offer personalized assistance to help you succeed.

Types of US Study Visa

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The F-1 student visa is a non-immigrant visa that allows international students to enter the US to study. It is the most popular type of student visa for individuals seeking to study at a US university or college. Applicants can only apply for the F-1 visa after an accredited US education institution accepts their application. All study institutions must be certified by the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP). The length of stay on an F-1 visa varies with the course duration. After completing the course, students can remain in the US for up to 60 days beyond the course completion date. If they wish to stay longer, they must apply for Optional Practical Training (OPT). US Student Visa Consultants in Bengaluru can provide expert guidance through this process.

F-1 VISA (STUDENT)

Eligibility Criteria:

To qualify for an F-1 visa, individuals must meet the following criteria:

• Acceptance into a U.S. institution approved by the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS).

• Intention to pursue a full-time course of study leading to a degree.

• Sufficient financial resources to cover tuition, living expenses, and other related costs.

SEVIS Requirement:

The SEVIS is a web-based system that maintains information on international students, exchange visitors, and their dependents. Prospective F-1 visa holders receive a Form I-20 from their U.S. school, which is a Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status. The SEVIS fee must be paid before applying for the F-1 visa.

Duration of Stay:

The F-1 visa is typically granted for the duration of the academic program. Upon completion, students may be eligible for Optional Practical Training (OPT), allowing them to work in their field of study for up to 12 months (with a potential 24-month STEM extension for certain fields).

Application Process:

The application process for an F-1 visa involves several steps:

• Acceptance into a U.S. school and receipt of Form I-20.

• Payment of the SEVIS fee.

• Completion of the Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application (DS-160).

• Scheduling and attending a visa interview at the U.S. embassy or consulate.

• Presentation of essential documents, including the Form I-20, proof of SEVIS fee payment, financial documentation, and ties to the home country.

Work Opportunities:

F-1 visa holders are eligible for employment under specific circumstances:

• On-Campus Employment: F-1 students may work on the school's premises for up to 20 hours per week while school is in session and full-time during scheduled breaks.

• Optional Practical Training (OPT): After completing their program, F-1 students may apply for OPT, allowing them to work in their field of study for up to 12 months. STEM degree holders may be eligible for a 24-month extension.

Dependents

F-1 visa holders can bring their dependents (spouses and unmarried children under 21) to the U.S. on F-2 visas. Dependents are not allowed to work but can attend school.

M-1 VISA (STUDENT)

The M-1 visa is a non-immigrant visa category in the United States tailored for international students pursuing vocational or non-academic programs. Unlike the F-1 visa, which is meant for academic studies leading to degrees, the M-1 visa is intended for individuals seeking practical training or education in a specific field that doesn’t necessarily result in a degree. For those seeking guidance, US Student Visa Consultants in Bengaluru can provide expert advice and assistance in navigating the M-1 visa application process. Here are key aspects of the M-1 US Student Visa:

Eligibility Criteria:

To qualify for an M-1 visa, individuals must meet certain criteria:

• Acceptance into a U.S. school approved by the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) for M visa issuance.

• Enrollment in a full-time vocational or non-academic program.

SEVIS Requirement:

Similar to the F-1 visa, prospective M-1 visa holders must be accepted into a U.S. institution certified by SEVIS. The school issues a Form I-20M-N, which is a Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status.

Duration of Stay:

M-1 visa holders are generally not authorized for off-campus employment. However, they may engage in practical training after completing their program through the M-1 Practical Training.

Application Process:

The application process for an M-1 visa involves several steps:

• Acceptance into a U.S. school and receipt of Form I-20M-N.

• Payment of the SEVIS fee.

• Completion of the Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application (DS-160).

• Scheduling and attending a visa interview at the U.S. embassy or consulate.

• Presentation of essential documents, including Form I-20M-N, proof of SEVIS fee payment, financial documentation, and ties to the home country.

Work Opportunities:

The M-1 visa is typically granted for the duration of the specific program. Extensions may be possible but are subject to specific regulations.

Dependents:

M-1 visa holders can bring their dependents (spouses and unmarried children under 21) to the U.S. on M-2 visas. Dependents are not allowed to work but can attend school.

J-1 VISA (STUDENT)

The J-1 Exchange Visitor Visa is a non-immigrant visa category that facilitates cultural and educational exchange programs in the United States. The J-1 visa encompasses various categories, including the J-1 Student Visa, which is designed for individuals participating in exchange programs that involve academic study or research. Here are the key features of the J-1 Student Visa:

Eligibility Criteria:

Eligibility requirements for the J-1 Student Visa vary based on the specific program and sponsor. However, common criteria include being accepted into an approved exchange program, possessing the necessary academic qualifications, and demonstrating proficiency in the English language.

SEVIS Requirement:

Like other non-immigrant students, J-1 visa applicants are required to pay the SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System) fee to support the maintenance of accurate information on exchange visitors.

Duration of Stay:

J-1 visa holders are generally allowed to work on-campus during their program and may be eligible for off-campus work authorization in certain circumstances. However, work authorization details depend on the specific J-1 category and program.

Two-Year Home Residency Requirement:

Some J-1 visa holders may be subject to a two-year home residency requirement, known as the "212(e) requirement." This means that after completing their J-1 program, they must return to their home country for at least two years before being eligible for certain U.S. immigration benefits, such as H or L visas, or permanent residency.

Work Opportunities:

The duration of stay on a J-1 Student Visa is determined by the specific program requirements. It can vary from a few weeks to several years, depending on the nature of the exchange program.

Dependents:

Dependents (spouses and unmarried children under 21) of J-1 visa holders are eligible for J-2 dependent status. J-2 dependents may also apply for work authorization, allowing them to work in the U.S.

Exchange Visitor Program Eligibility:

The J-1 Student Visa is part of the broader Exchange Visitor Program, which promotes mutual understanding between the people of the United States and people from other countries through educational and cultural exchanges.

Academic and Research Programs:

Individuals applying for the J-1 Student Visa typically participate in academic study, research, or other educational activities. These programs are often sponsored by educational institutions, research organizations, or cultural exchange organizations.

Program Sponsorship:

To obtain a J-1 Student Visa, individuals must be sponsored by an approved program sponsor designated by the U.S. Department of State. These sponsors can include universities, research institutions, private companies, or cultural exchange organizations.

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