The visa process can be long and complicated. Our team is here to help! Below is a summary of the most common visas our team members pursue.

Visa Type

Applies to

Involved Parties

Projected Processing Time
(for department assisted visas only)

Visa Duration

Maximum Time Frame

F1

UCLA Graduate Student Visa (GSRs)

Obtained by the Student through the Dashew Center.

N/A

1-3 years

Duration of education

F1OPT

Post-Graduation from Higher Education

Obtained by the team member through the Dashew Center.

N/A

1 year

3 years

Student J1

Visiting Graduate Researchers

Obtained through the DGSOM Visa and Licensing Office in close collaboration with Department's Visa Coordinator.

4-5 Months

3 months - 1 year

2 years

J1

Visiting Doctors

Obtained through the DGSOM Visa and Licensing Office in close collaboration with Department's Visa Coordinator.

4-5 Months

1 year

2 years

J1

Employment work authorization

Obtained through the DGSOM Visa and Licensing Office in close collaboration with Department's Visa Coordinator.

4-5 Months

1-5 years

5 years

Clinical J

Residents

Obtained through a third party, ECFMG. Student Affairs Office coordinates.

N/A

1 year

5 years

H1B

Employer Sponsored Visa

Obtained through the Dashew Office in close collaboration with Department's Visa Coordinator.

5-6 Months*

3 years

6 years

O1

‘Extra Ordinary Visa'; Employer Sponsored Visa

Obtained through the DGSOM Visa and Licensing Office in close collaboration with Department's Visa Coordinator.

6-8 Months

3 years

Unlimited

Permanent Resident

Employer Sponsored

Obtained through the DGSOM Visa and Licensing Office in close collaboration with Department's Visa Coordinator.

1-year

NA

NA

TN

Applicants from Mexico or Canada; Employer Assisted

Obtained by the applicant on their own. Requires a letter be provided by the Department.

N/A

3 years

Unlimited

*assuming that the candidate already has a Waiver (if needed). Note on Waivers: If the employee is currently in the US and subject to a 2-year home residency requirement by their home country, they must obtain a Waiver in order to qualify for the H1B visa. Applicants should strive to apply for a Waiver 1-year before their visa status expires.

If you have any questions about a current or potential visa, please reach out to the Department’s Lead Visa Coordinator, Kristine Fisher ([email protected]).