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Posted on June 05 2024

What is the difference between an H-1B visa and an F1 Visa?

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By  Editor
Updated June 06 2024

What is the difference between an H-1B visa and an F-1 Visa?

The H-1B visa is a work permit granted to people who want to stay and work in the USA whereas the F-1 visa is a student visa issued to international students who want to study in the USA. Students who have completed their studies and want to work in the US can apply for the H-1B visa while they are undergoing Optional Practical Training (OPT). The H-1B visa is valid for up to six years while the F-1 visa is valid for five years.

 

Planning to apply for the US H-1B Visa? Talk to Y-Axis experts for step-by-step assistance.

 

H-1B visa vs. F-1 visa

The difference between the H-1B and F-1 visas are as follows:

Visa Type

H-1B Visa

F-1 Visa

Purpose of visa

Is for the employees who are looking to  reside and work in the US

Is for the students who want to study in the US

Eligibility and Requirements

People with a job offer for skilled occupations in the US and with a minimum of a bachelor’s degree

People who are enrolled in either a college/university or a vocational training program

Validity

For three years with another three year extension

For 5 years with another year for Optional Practical Training (OPT)

Processing Time

3-5 months

15 - 60 days

Processing Fee

215 USD

150 USD

English Language Proficiency

Not mandatory

Is mandatory

Accepted tests - IELTS, PTE, TOEFL

Employment options

Can change their employer but cannot work with another while working for the sponsor

After graduating, they can work for a year in the related field under OPT

Students can work pert-time for a maximum of 20 hours a week while they study.

Permanent Residency

Can apply for PR after staying in the US for six years and if they meet all the requirements

Are not eligible to apply for Permanent Residency

Work while waiting for a change in visa category

Can work under a new employer with the previous H-1B visa until the new one is approved

Can work under the OPT while their H-1B visa is being approved

Dependents

Family members - spouse and children who are under the age of 21 and not married can apply with an H-4 Visa

Family members - spouse and children who are under the age of 21 and not married can apply with an F2 Visa

Work authorization for dependents

Spouses can work once they get approval from the Employment Authorisation Department

Dependents are not permitted to work

 

Looking to Migrate to the USA? Talk to Y-Axis, world’s No. 1 overseas immigration consultancy for end-to-end support.

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Difference between an H-1B visa and a F-1 Visa

H-1B Visa

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