Student Visas
F-1, J-1, and M-1 student visa application guides with document requirements, SEVIS fees, financial proof thresholds, and consular interview preparation tips. Covers visa stamps, extensions, and transfers.
Top questions about Student Visas
Answers from VisaVerge guidesHow did the U.S. government handle F-1 and J-1 visa applications for citizens of certain countries starting in July 2025?
Starting in July 2025, F-1 and J-1 visas for citizens of over 20 countries became valid for only three months with single entry, making quick trips home risky.
Read: Policy Shifts Spark Fear, Yet International Students Drive MBA FuturesWhat are the main rules for J-1 Exchange Visitor Visas as of November 2025?
Current rules include security screening, proof of ties abroad, and strict program sponsorship requirements, which have been in place from long-running regulations and earlier presidential actions.
Read: No Confirmed J-1 Crackdown Under Trump Policies in November 2025How have recent changes impacted the J-1 visa process?
Recent changes include increased document scrutiny and new barriers for international professionals seeking U.S. training, particularly affecting countries removed from the Exchange Visitor Skills List.
Read: J-1 visa issue puts Hematology/Oncology fellowship at risk for doctorWhat are some key elements of the DHS's draft rule regarding F-1 and J-1 visa limits?
Key elements include a fixed four-year limit, an extension requirement for USCIS, shorter grace periods, and restrictions on flexibility for F-1 students.
Read: BU Expands Opposition to DHS Four-Year Visa Limit ProposalHow should F1 Visa holders navigate the shifting landscape of immigration policies?
F1 Visa holders should be proactive, stay informed, and comply strictly with regulations by regularly checking official resources such as USCIS and attending information sessions hosted by their institution's international student office.
Read: The Impact of Changes in Government Policy on F1 Visa Holders: Explained
DHS Proposes Fixed Admission Period for F-1, J-1, I Visas
DHS proposed ending D/S for F-1, J-1, and I visa holders, replacing it with fixed admission through the I-20/DS-2019 end date up to four years. Extensions require Form I-539 filing;…
Understanding J-1 Waiver Attorney Fees and Payment Options in 2025
J-1 waivers require a DOS recommendation (Form DS-3035) and a USCIS decision. Expect attorney fees of $2,800–$5,000+, DOS…
J-1 Waiver Costs: Attorney Fees and Government Fees Explained
In 2025, J-1 waiver costs usually fall between $1,500 and $7,000+, combining attorney fees ($1,200–$5,000+) and government filing…
U.S. Proposes Fixed Admission Periods for F-1, J-1, I Visas
DHS’s 2025 proposal would replace Duration of Status with fixed admission periods: F-1/J-1 up to four years and…
Michigan Conrad-30 and HHS Waivers for J-1 Physicians (2025-2026)
Michigan’s Conrad-30 (30-slot cap) opens Sept. 2025–Nov. 2025; both it and the year-round HHS Clinical-Care Waiver require three-year,…
Russia Rolls Out Fully Domestic SJ-100, Completes Maiden Flight in April 2025
The fully domestic SJ-100 (airframe 97003) flew its 40-minute maiden flight on April 23, 2025, testing PD-8 engines…
Explained: What Is the J-1 Visa and Harvard’s Federal Scrutiny?
Harvard’s 2025 suspension from sponsoring J-1 visas follows federal allegations about security, foreign ties, and reporting failures. With…
Why the US Is Targeting Harvard’s J-1 Visa Program in Political Tensions
Harvard’s J-1 visa program came under US government investigation in July 2025, following SEVP certification revocation in May.…
5 Essential Tips for Transferring from J-1 to H-1B Visa Status
To change from J-1 to H-1B visa, confirm if the two-year residency applies or obtain a waiver, find…
8 Essential Documents Required for J-1 Exchange Visitor Visa
To obtain a J-1 visa, applicants must secure Form DS-2019, submit required documents, complete DS-160 and SEVIS fee…