Frequently Asked Questions
Can I work or conduct research during my grace period?
Learn whether you can work or conduct research during your F-1 or J-1 grace period and what activities are allowed after your program ends.
What documents do I need to re-enter the U.S.?
Learn which documents F-1 and J-1 students need to re-enter the U.S., including passports, visas, travel signatures, and supporting records.
What happens if I’m questioned at the airport?
Know what to expect if CBP delays or refuses your entry, including secondary inspection, Form I-515A, and the steps to protect your status.
What should I expect at a U.S. Port of Entry?
Know what to expect at a U.S. port of entry, including CBP inspection, required documents, secondary inspection, and your I-94 admission.
Can I travel to the U.S. without my Form I-20 or DS-2019?
Don't travel without your original Form I-20 or DS-2019. Find out what to do if it's lost, delayed, or damaged before returning to the U.S.
What is a travel signature and why do I need one?
Learn what a travel signature is, why F-1 and J-1 students need one, how long it's valid, and how it affects re-entry to the U.S.
What should I do if I’m delayed or refused entry by CBP?
Learn what to do if CBP delays or refuses your entry, what happens in secondary inspection, and how to respond to a Form I-515A or denial.
What is the 12-month bar, and how is it different from the 24-month bar?
Understand the difference between the J-1 12-month and 24-month bars, who each rule applies to, and how they affect future exchange programs.
How do I pay the I-901 SEVIS fee?
Learn the most common reasons U.S. visa applications are denied, including INA 214(b), 221(g), financial proof, documents, and home-country ties.
Can I visit Canada or Mexico without a valid visa stamp?
Learn when Automatic Visa Revalidation lets F-1 and J-1 students re-enter the U.S. from Canada or Mexico without a valid visa stamp.
Can I extend my J-1 program?
Learn how to extend your J-1 program, eligibility requirements, funding and documentation needed, deadlines, and how to avoid falling out of status.
What is the J-1 Specialist category?
Find out who qualifies for the J-1 Specialist category, eligible activities, program limits, and how the one-year maximum stay works.
Can my J-2 spouse work in the U.S.?
See how a J-2 spouse can apply for work authorization, when employment can begin, and the rules for working legally in the U.S.
Can I travel to Canada or Mexico during my grace period and return to complete my departure?
Know how travel to Canada or Mexico affects your F-1 or J-1 grace period and why leaving the U.S. ends your ability to return in that status.
What is “specialized knowledge” for an L-1 visa?
Understand what qualifies as specialized knowledge for an L-1B visa, who meets the standard, and how USCIS evaluates eligible positions.
Is there an annual limit on H-1B visas?
Find out how the H-1B annual cap works, who qualifies for the master's cap, and which employers are exempt from the H-1B lottery.
What are the EB-1A extraordinary ability criteria?
Review the 10 EB-1A extraordinary ability criteria, the three-criteria requirement, and how USCIS makes its final eligibility decision.
What is the National Interest Waiver (NIW)?
Understand how the National Interest Waiver (NIW) lets eligible EB-2 applicants self-petition without employer sponsorship or labor certification.
Which jobs qualify for a TN visa?
See which professions qualify for a TN visa, the education requirements, and how your job offer and qualifications must match USMCA rules.
What does “extraordinary ability” mean for an O-1 visa?
Understand what extraordinary ability means for an O-1 visa, the evidence USCIS requires, and how applicants qualify under the eligibility criteria.