If you’re currently in the United States on a J1 visa, but you want to switch to an F1 visa, you might be wondering where to start. The process of transferring from a J1 to an F1 visa can seem overwhelming, but with a little bit of guidance, it can be a relatively straightforward process.

Key Takeaways

• The J1 to F1 visa transfer process requires careful planning and preparation.
• You must be accepted to an SEVP-approved school to be eligible for an F1 visa.
• You will need to obtain a Form I-20 from your school to apply for an F1 visa.
• You should apply for your F1 visa as soon as possible to avoid delays.
• You may need to obtain a waiver of the two-year home-country physical presence requirement before you can transfer to an F1 visa.

Step 1: Research Your Options

Before you can transfer from a J1 to an F1 visa, you’ll need to find a school that’s SEVP-approved. SEVP stands for the Student and Exchange Visitor Program, and it’s part of the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). SEVP-approved schools are authorized to enroll non-immigrant students and issue the Form I-20, which you’ll need for your F1 visa application.

To find SEVP-approved schools, you can use the ICE’s school search tool. This tool lets you search for schools by location, program, and accreditation.

Once you’ve identified some SEVP-approved schools that interest you, you’ll need to contact them to discuss your eligibility and the transfer process.

Step 2: Apply to SEVP-Approved Schools

To be eligible for an F1 visa, you must be accepted to an SEVP-approved school. The application process will vary depending on the school, but you’ll usually need to provide transcripts, test scores, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement.

Be sure to research each school’s application requirements and deadlines carefully. You don’t want to miss an important deadline or forget to include a required document.

Step 3: Obtain a Form I-20

Once you’ve been accepted to an SEVP-approved school, you’ll need to obtain a Form I-20. The Form I-20 is a Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status issued by the school. It confirms that you’ve been accepted to the school and that you’re eligible to apply for an F1 visa.

To obtain a Form I-20, you’ll need to provide your school with proof of your financial support. This can include bank statements, scholarship letters, or other documents that show you can pay for your tuition and living expenses while you’re in the U.S.

Step 4: Apply for Your F1 Visa

Once you have your Form I-20, you can apply for your F1 visa. You should apply for your visa as soon as possible to avoid delays. You can apply for your visa at your local U.S. embassy or consulate.

As part of your F1 visa application, you’ll need to provide a variety of documents, including:

• Your passport
• Your Form I-20
• Proof of financial support
• Test scores (if required)
• A copy of your SEVIS fee payment receipt

You may also be required to attend an interview at the embassy or consulate.

Step 5: Obtain a Waiver of the Two-Year Home-Country Physical Presence Requirement

If you’re in the U.S. on a J1 visa, you may be subject to the two-year home-country physical presence requirement. This means that you must return to your home country for at least two years at the end of your J1 program before you’re eligible for certain visas, including the F1 visa.

However, in some cases, you may be eligible to obtain a waiver of this requirement. There are several ways to qualify for a waiver, including:

• A “no objection” statement from your home country
• A request from a U.S. government agency
• A request based on persecution fears

If you think you may be eligible for a waiver, you should contact the U.S. Department of State for more information.

Conclusion

Transferring from a J1 visa to an F1 visa can be a complex process, but with careful planning and preparation, it’s possible to navigate the process successfully. If you’re considering a J1 to F1 visa transfer, start by researching SEVP-approved schools and their application requirements. Be sure to apply to several schools to increase your chances of being accepted, and don’t forget to obtain your Form I-20 and apply for your visa as early as possible.

FAQ

Q: Can I transfer from a J1 visa to an F1 visa without going back to my home country?A: It’s possible to transfer from a J1 visa to an F1 visa without going back to your home country if you’re not subject to the two-year home-country physical presence requirement. However, if you are subject to this requirement, you’ll need to obtain a waiver before you can apply for an F1 visa.

Q: How long does it take to transfer from a J1 visa to an F1 visa?A: The transfer process can take several months, depending on the specific circumstances of your case. It’s important to start the process as early as possible to avoid delays.