Getting Started Scholars

Information about the B-1 and Visa Waiver Program is intended for students or scholars inviting family to visit the U.S. AND for scholars whose visas are not sponsored by WashU. The sponsoring department at WashU will provide the visitor with an invitation letter. Use this letter at the consulate and at the U.S. port of […]

The TN category was developed as part of the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA), which is currently called the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). It enables Canadian and Mexican citizens to be admitted to the U.S. to engage in “business activities at a professional level” on a temporary basis. Employment is reserved for specified occupations, […]

The O-1 visa category is reserved for individuals of “extraordinary ability” in the sciences, arts or education. The documentation required for an O-1 petition is quite extensive, and the decision on whether or not a scholar qualifies for an O-1 visa is often difficult. The O-1 classifications are commonly referred to as: To discuss whether […]

The H-1B visa category is designated for individuals coming temporarily to the U.S. to perform services in a specialty occupation. A specialty occupation is defined as an occupation which requires theoretical and practical application of a body of highly specialized knowledge and attainment of a bachelor’s or higher degree for the specific specialization (or its […]

The U.S. Department of State (DOS) J-1 Exchange Visitor (EV) Program exists to promote educational and cultural exchange. The Office for International Students and Scholars (OISS) at WashU brings EVs to campus temporarily with the expectation that they will return home with their new knowledge and skills. The J-1 EV status is appropriate for many […]

You must complete and submit the DS-160 Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application prior to your visa appointment at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate.