Understanding Visa Types for Employment of Visiting Students and Scholars

B-1 Visitor Visa: Individual in the U.S. for a short time to engage in business activities such as negotiating contracts for overseas employees, consulting with business associates, attending professional conferences, or conducting independent research.; May not engage in any employment in the U.S., including salaried work or services performed on an independent basis. Incidental part-time study is allowed. 

F-1 Student Approved for Post-Completion Optional Practical Training (OPT) or STEM OPT: Individual in the U.S. engaging in a full course of academic or language study in an accredited educational program. They may be approved for 12 months of work authorization in the field of their major post-completion during Optional Practical Training (OPT) and even further with an extension of 24 months of STEM OPT for eligible majors. 

H-1B: Temporary Worker in a Specialty Occupation: Individuals in the U.S. to perform professional services in a specific position for a fixed period of time.; Employment authorization is granted for an initial period of up to 3 years. Extensions for an additional 3 years are possible. May engage in part-time study while maintaining H visa status. 

J-1 Exchange Visitor:  Exchange Visitor (Student): Individuals in the U.S. as exchange visitors for the primary purpose of studying at an academic institution under the auspices of the United States Information Agency and a Designated Program Sponsor. This can include visiting students or visiting faculty participating in research, teaching, consulting, or lecturing. 

O-1 Visa: Person of Extraordinary Ability: Individual of extraordinary ability in the sciences, arts, education, business, or athletics who are in the U.S. to work for a sponsoring employer or organization. May engage in part-time study while maintaining O status.