Q. What is the Difference Between F-1 and H-1B?

Both the F-1 and H-1B visas are high in popularity. Whereas the F-1 visa enables the education of students at college or university in the US, the H-1B visa lets foreign nationals get employment within the US for six years. The H-1B visa also qualifies a nonimmigrant worker to be a Green Card holder. The holders of foreign F1 visas are entitled to Optional Practical Training (OPT), which applies to non-immigrants.

The main differences between H-1B and F-1 visas are as specified:

Usage

To work in a specialty activity under the H-1B visa, foreign employees must possess a master’s or bachelor’s degree or its commensurate. The F-1 visas are education-related and cannot be utilized to get a job in the USA. Nonetheless, students can get previous permission from the Department of Homeland Security, besides the International office of your school, to work for nearly 20 hours every week on campus during an operative school session. Moreover, having a Curricular Practical Training (CPT) or OPT also permits F-1 holders to work in the USA.

Visa Nomenclature

The employment visa is termed an H-1B visa. The F and J categories come under student visas.

Place of Application

It is optional to register the H-1B petition outside the USA. A candidate from outside the USA must apply for the F-1.

Duration of Visa

The initial validity of H-1B is 3 years, which is to be extended for an extra 3 years. The duration of an F-1 visa remains only till the student's academic session.

Sponsoring

The H-1B visa requires a US company to sponsor the applicant and be willing to pay part of the connected fees. A person, school, or other entity can’t sponsor the F-1 visa.