U.S. visa options for graduating students

Person holding a coffee watching a plane take off at an aiport

If you’re looking for a job in the United States (U.S.), you may have many questions. While we cannot formally consult with you about visas for full-time employment, check out the Centre for Career Development's upcoming career workshop topics for sessions on finding a job in the U.S. Hosted by licensed U.S. immigration professionals, these sessions may provide clarity about the U.S. immigration process, and give you a chance to ask questions.

Please note that the information that we provide should not be considered formal advice, and we recommend consulting personally with a licensed U.S. immigration professional as you proceed.

J-1 visa (training category)

If you previously worked in the U.S. during a co-op work term, applying for a J-1 visa allows you to return to a previous U.S. co-op employer using the same visa sponsor. The J-1 visa is applicable for up to 18 months after graduation.

You must submit your applications within six (6) months of graduation to be eligible for this full-time temporary visa. The cost and length of processing time will vary. Please check with your sponsor concerning your visa’s due dates and fees. We recommend starting the application process as soon as possible.

Be sure to review the U.S. work permits (J-1 visa) process which includes the University’s preferred sponsor agencies. Talk to your employer and contact the sponsors directly to get all the details.

NAFTA Professional (TN) visa

The non-immigrant NAFTA Professional (TN) visa allows Canadian and Mexican citizens to work in the U.S. on prearranged business activities for U.S. or foreign employers. Permanent residents of Canada and Mexico, as well as international students, are not able to apply for TN visas.

Check the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services guidelines for TN NAFTA professionals and the U.S. Department of State – Bureau of Consular Affairs for more details.

H1-B visa

The H1-B visa is available to Canadian and international students. Your employer needs to file your application on your behalf. The H-1B visa is valid for six years in three-year increments; it can be made available for different employers if needed. After six years, you must change your status, or return home for at least a year.

Applications for H1B visas are available in April each year with start dates in the fall. Your request must be submitted several months prior to starting employment as wait times are lengthy. There is a limited number of H1-B visas available each year. Visit U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services for more information on the H1-B visa.

Need a degree completion letter for visa applications?

You can order an official University-produced degree completion letter through The Centre’s proof of enrolment request. The University can only process degree completion letters once you have completed all degree requirements and your degree has been awarded on Quest.