NONIMMIGRANT VISAS

Types of Visas

Q Visas: International Cultural Exchange Visitors

Who should apply?

This visa is for a person who wants to go to the U.S. to participate in an international cultural exchange program designated by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) for the purpose of providing practical training, employment, and the sharing of the history, culture and traditions of your country of nationality.

What types are available?

• Q-1 is for international cultural exchange visitors

What must you establish as a Q-1 Visa applicant?

• You have a residence abroad that you do not intend to abandon
• Your employer filed, and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has approved, a petition (Form I-129) that requests Q status for you, as demonstrated by presentation of the Form I-129 and Form I-797
• You must be at least 18 years of age
• You must be qualified to perform the service or labor or to receive the type of training specified in the petition
• You have the ability and English language skills to communicate effectively about the cultural attributes of your country to the U.S. public
• You have been outside the U.S. for the immediate prior year if previously admitted as a Q nonimmigrant 

Further Instructions & Information

• Your stay in the U.S. cannot exceed 15 months. The maximum validity of the Q petition is 15 months from the date of approval
• If your spouse/child needs to travel to the U.S., in most circumstances they will need a visitor visa (B Visa)
• If you want your spouse/child to travel to the U.S. with you, apply for your visas at the same time. Book your visa interview appointments for the same day and attend your visa interview together

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