What is an F-3 Visa?
An F-3 nonimmigrant visa is specifically for “border commuter students” who live in Mexico or Canada and commute to the U.S. for full or part time study at an approved U.S. school. F-3 visa holders must return to their home country daily or at least weekly. To qualify for an F-3 visa, students must enroll in a program at an institution located within 75 miles of the United States border. The educational program must be either academic or language-focused, and students are required to maintain valid student status throughout their enrollment period.
Key Takeaways
- An F-3 nonimmigrant visa is specifically for “border commuter students” who live in Mexico or Canada and commute to the U.S. for full or part time study at an approved U.S. school.
- F-3 student visa holders must maintain their primary residence in either Mexico or Canada.
- Students may not work in the United States except through authorized practical training programs that are directly related to their field of study.
Main Elements of F-3 Visas
Are you currently living in Canada or Mexico and interested in pursuing academics in the United States? The F-3 could be a great option for you. Let’s dive deeper and learn more about this nonimmigrant visa category.
- No U.S. Residency: Unlike other types of student visas, F-3 visa holders are not authorized to reside primarily in the U.S. The student is expected to enter the U.S. solely for educational purposes and return back to Mexico or Canada at the end of every school day or week.
- Enrollment Requirements: You do not have to be a full-time student in order to become eligible for an F-3 visa. In fact, in order to meet the threshold requirement to obtain an F-3 visa, you only need to be enrolled in one class.
- Employment Restrictions: Students with F-3 visas may not work in the United States except through authorized practical training programs that are directly related to their field of study. This restriction helps maintain the primary purpose of the visa as educational rather than employment-based.
- Internships and Other Training Programs: F-3 students are allowed to participate in internships and other training programs if they are directly related to their studies. As stated above, the F-3 visa holder cannot participate in non-degree related employment programs. Further, the training location must be within commuting distance of the border.
- Academic Requirements: Academic progress must meet the institution's standards, with regular attendance at scheduled classes being mandatory. The program completion timeline must align with the authorized period of study, and any extensions require proper documentation and approval.
- Financial Responsibility: Students must demonstrate sufficient funds to cover all tuition and fee obligations throughout their academic program. Ongoing financial support must be documented through bank statements, sponsor letters, or other approved financial instruments.
Bottom Line
The F-3 commuter student visa offers a unique opportunity for Mexican and Canadian students to pursue their education in the United States while maintaining residence in their home country. For detailed guidance on F-3 visa applications, eligibility requirements, and ongoing compliance, contact a legal at Attorney At Law.
