Immigration Status

Often confused with the visa. Your immigration status (F-1 or J-1) is determined when you enter the U.S. by an immigration inspector and is indicated on the I-94 or on the admission stamp in your passport. You may have many visa stamps in your passport, but upon entry into the U.S., an immigration inspector can admit you in only one immigration status. Verify that the correct status is indicated on your I-94 card or in your passport. Unlike your visa, your immigration status may be changed in the U.S. The U.S. Department of State provides further clarification on visas and visa status.