F-1 and J-1 Visa Lawyer: Student and Exchange Visitor Status

Immigration » F-1 and J-1 visas

F-1 status is for academic students, and J-1 status is for exchange visitors such as researchers, interns, au pairs, physicians and professors. Both statuses come with strict rules about enrollment, employment and the length of stay. We help students, scholars and their families in all 50 states.

F-1 matters we handle

Optional Practical Training (OPT) and STEM OPT extensions.
Curricular Practical Training and other work authorization questions.
Reinstatement after a status violation, such as a lapse in enrollment.
Transfers between schools and changes of program level.
Change of status to or from F-1, including to H-1B or a family-based green card.

J-1 matters we handle

Change of status and extensions that require sponsor approval.
The two-year home residence requirement (212(e)) and whether it applies to you.
Waivers of the two-year requirement, including no objection letters, hardship and persecution waivers, and the Conrad 30 program for physicians.
Moving from J-1 to a work visa or a green card.

Common problems to avoid

Working without authorization, which can end status and affect future applications.
Dropping below full-time enrollment without an approved reason.
Waiting too long to apply for a change of status or an extension.
Assuming that a green card application is always safe for someone with a visitor or student intent issue.

Frequently asked questions

Can I work on an F-1 visa?

Only with specific authorization, such as on-campus work within the school rules, CPT or OPT. Off-campus work without authorization violates status.

What is the J-1 two-year rule?

Some J-1 exchange visitors must return to their home country for two years before they can change to certain statuses or get a green card. Whether it applies depends on the program, the funding and the skills list. A waiver may be available.

Can a student change to an H-1B?

Yes, if an employer sponsors the student and the student is selected in the registration process. We review the timing so that the student keeps status.

Can I fix a status violation?

Sometimes. Options depend on the violation and how long ago it happened, and we explain what is realistic before you decide.

How we work with clients nationwide

We represent clients in all 50 states because immigration law is federal. Every client receives access to our secure client portal, where you can message our firm 24/7, upload documents and follow your case from anywhere. The Law Office of Elena Vlady, PLLC is based in Austin, Texas.

F-1 and J-1 visas guide

Related immigration services

How our firm helps with student and exchange visas

We review your program, funding and plans, and prepare you for a visa interview.
We guide you on OPT, CPT and STEM OPT so work authorization is used correctly.
We help you fix status problems, including reinstatement.
We assess the J-1 two-year rule early and handle waivers when they are needed.

Situations we handle

Students graduating and seeking work
Students who fell out of status
J-1 researchers subject to the home residency rule
Students moving to H-1B

Why clients choose our firm

A Texas-licensed attorney serving immigration clients in all 50 states.
Russian-language service for clients and families.
Clear communication and updates through our client portal.
A full review of your history before anything is filed, so problems are caught early.
Organized filings and representation through interviews, requests for evidence and appeals.

Get help with student or exchange visitor status

Request a consultation to review your situation. Legal plan members can mention their plan when booking.

This page is general information, not legal advice, and reading it does not create an attorney-client relationship. Immigration rules and fees change often.

Last updated:

November 12, 2026