Visa Summary
These are some of the more common visa categories that International Programs will use to support international employees and international scholars that needs visa support. The support process is always initiated by the KU hosting / hiring department.
J-1 Research Scholar / Professor
- Maximum stay of 5 years.
- Primarily used for visiting scholars, postdoctoral researchers and visiting faculty.
- May become subject to the two year home country residency requirement.
- Will become subject to 24-month bar on repeat participation.
- Dependents hold J-2 status and spouse can apply for work authorization.
J-1 Short Term Scholar
- Maximum stay of 6 months.
- Primarily used for visiting scholars and visiting faculty whose KU appointment will be less than 6 months.
- May become subject to the two year home country residency requirement.
- Dependents hold J-2 status and spouse can apply for work authorization.
B Visitor Visa
- Used for short visits.
- Restrictive criteria on payment of honoraria and/or reimbursement of expenses.
H-1B Temporary Worker
- Maximum stay of 6 years.
- Must be a KU employee.
- Position must be a specialty occupation
- Must meet wage requirements.
TN NAFTA Professionals
- Canadian and Mexican citizens only.
- Must be a KU employee.
- Profession must be on the NAFTA list.
F-1 Optional Practical Training
- For those in F-1 status who have completed a degree program in the U.S. and have received employment authorization from USCIS to work in a field related to their field of study.
- Maximum period of employment is 12 months.
- Degree granting institution maintains immigration advising responsibilities.
O-1 Extraordinary Ability
- Applicant must demonstrate sustained national and/or international acclaim and recognition for achievements.
- Must be a KU employee.
Coming to KU to conduct research
If you have secured your own funding from an outside source (i.e. your home government, an international organization, your home university, etc.) and you would like to come to the University of Kansas to conduct research you must have a KU professor who is willing to host or sponsor you during your time at KU. The visa sponsorship process is started by the KU professor or department.
To find a KU professor willing to host your research program, please contact academic unit or research centers directly. Let them know if you already have funding to come to the United States.
