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You came to the USA via the Work and Travel program, but there is no need to stress and be sad because there is little time left for your J-1 visa to expire. You can make an application to extend your US adventure before your visa expires, and you can continue this adventure after your visa expires. Check out this essential guide to find out your available options and plan your next steps with confidence, and don’t miss the opportunity to pursue your American dream!
If you want to extend your stay after your current visa expires, you may consider applying for a Change of Status. This guide will provide you with information about changing from a J-1 to another type of nonimmigrant visa, such as a B-2 or F-1.
Change of Status (CoS) is a procedure that allows individuals already in the U.S. on a non-immigrant visa, like the J-1, to apply for a different status based on their changed circumstances without needing to leave the country.
What are the Most Preferred Visa Types for Change of Status?
- B-2 Status (Visitor for Pleasure): Discover the wonders of the U.S. with a B-2 Tourist Status! You have up to six months to take advantage of all that America has to offer as a visitor. You may proceed in the United States with assurance, knowing exactly what your visa permits. This status also gives you an extra six months to think about what you want to do with your time in the United States after this.
- F-1 Status (Academic Student): With this status, you can fully realize your academic potential while studying in the United States! With F-1 Status, pursue full-time studies at accredited American universities, ranging from intensive language programs to advanced undergraduate and graduate degrees. And establish the groundwork for a prosperous future with this experience!
- M-1 Status (Vocational Student): Jump-start your career with the M-1 Vocational Student Visa! If you are seeking full-time vocational training, this visa will allow you to get the training you need to develop your skills.Whether you’re interested in culinary arts, automotive technology, or any other hands-on profession, the M-1 status ensures the necessary education you need to specialize in your area. Start this journey that will help you specialize in your profession today!
How to Change from J-1 to F-1 Status
- Step 1: Obtain acceptance from a school certified by the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP).
- Step 2: Gather necessary documents, including your passport, current visa, Form I-539, Form I-20 (issued by the school), DS-2019, Form I-94, and other required documents. (We will help you gather these documents.)
- Step 3: Submit your application to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
The same process applies for the change to M-1 status.
Changing to B-2 Tourist Status Process
Looking for an easy way to extend your stay without academic or vocational training?
Consider changing to a B-2 Tourist Visa. This simple process allows you to continue enjoying your journey in the U.S. with minimum effort. Here’s how you can apply:
What Documents are Needed for Changing to B-2 Tourist Status?
- Passport
- Current visa
- Form I-539
- DS-2019
- Form I-94
- Additional documents as required by your legal counsel
It’s important to consider that the B-2 status is usually granted for a period of six months.
Processing Time and Legal Stay in the U.S
The processing time for a Change of Status application is approximately six months. If you applied for a Change of Status before your visa expired, even if your visa expires, you can continue to stay in the U.S. until your application is decided.
Grace Period
After the conclusion of their program, J-1 visa holders are entitled to a 30-day grace period. During this time, you can legally stay in the U.S. and are eligible to apply for a Change of Status.
Work with Oguz Law’s Immigration Attorneys For Your Change of Status Application
You can reach our expert immigration attorneys for further information and guidance on the change of status process in the U.S.
