J-1 Visa from New Zealand from F-1?

[luckyyellowhog 0]

Hello,

I am in the US under an F-1 Visa as I have been completing a Bachelors for the past 4 years graduating in May 2015. I will then take my post completion OPT which will grant me 1 year work in the US. I am from London originally, however was told that as I also hold a New Zealand/ Australian passport, I could be eligible for a J-1 visa. Is this possible? And if so can I take it after or before my OPT to essentially give me 2 years working in total (OPT + J-1)?

Many thanks.

[Merrytooth 5,748]

Are you referring to New Zealand and Australia Twelve-Month Work and Travel Program?

http://newzealand.usembassy.gov/swt_faq.html

[luckyyellowhog 0]

Yes I am!

[TylerW 0]

It makes sense to get some professional advice about this to make sure you are not doing the wrong thing. First step, ask your college guidance office for how to proceed with your studies/ employment. The information on this site http://newzealand.usembassy.gov/swt_faq.html is general but there is also contact information on the site so you could get in touch with the Embassy of New Zealand too. Good luck with your studies and your future employment!