Can you change from a J1 visa to an ESTA by going to Mexico for a few weeks? [duplicate]

I'm a UK National currently on a J1 visa as a student in the US which expires on July 13th (after the grace period) but my flight isn't booked until August 22nd as I want to do some more travelling around the US. Can I go to Mexico for around 10 days and then re-enter the US on an ESTA?

Best Answer

As long as you have your ESTA approved you should not have an issue. As per CBP you're not a subject to the 2 year home rule as long as you're not entering the US for the purpose of work or study.

So if you leave the country and then enter on an approved ESTA you should not have an issue.

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Do you need an ESTA if you have a J-1 visa?

J-1 visas and ESTAGeneral travel to the U.S. such as travel on organized tours requires application for ESTA, not for a visa. Even those passing through the U.S. in transit, regardless of age, must obtain ESTA.

Can I go to Mexico with a J-1 visa?

If you are in J-1 status and your J-1 visa is expired, you may still return to the U.S. from a trip to Canada, Mexico, or the Caribbean Islands even with an expired visa, provided that you meet all of these conditions: your passport is valid. you have a valid DS-2019 with a valid travel signature.

Can I renew my J-1 visa in Mexico?

You can only renew your visa at a U.S. consulate abroad. ISSO always recommends that you apply for your renewal visa in your home country. If you apply in a country other than your home country, you may be subject to administrative processing, which will require that you stay in that country until your visa is issued.

Can I go to Mexico on an ESTA visa?

Neither a visa nor ESTA is required when traveling directly to Mexico for a stay of up to 180 days. However, if entering Mexico via the U.S., your stay may not exceed 90 days.

How to Get A J1 Waiver in 2022 (Step-by-Step Process)

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