Posted on June 05 2024

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

By
Anshul Singhal
, 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