An I visa, is a non-immigrant visa which allows bona fide foreign nationals who are the representatives of foreign press, radio, film, or other foreign information media to enter the U.S. in connection with engaging in their profession (covering news events, production of programs, etc.)
While issuing the media visa, the consular officer will consider whether the applicant's own government grants similar privileges or is reciprocal, to representatives of the media or press from the US and follow appropriate procedures.
Media visa is for "representatives of the foreign media" such as members of the press, film, radio or print industries, whose activities are necessary to the function of the foreign media such as reporters, film crews, editors and other persons in similar occupations, traveling to the US to engage in their profession. Visa Waiver Program (VWP), even if he/she is a citizen of the country participating in the VWP program. Such person must obtain a media visa first. Foreign media representatives covering the United Nations do not need an I visa. I visa can normally be obtained directly from the US embassy/consulate without first filing a separate petition with the USCIS.
I visa is generally issued for one year. Extensions in one year increment can be issued, and there is no limit on the number of extensions. Revalidation of I visa stamp cannot be performed while in the US. Visa stamping must be done outside the US if I visa status was extended, but I visa stamp has expired and such person wants to travel outside the US and enter again.
I visa holder can work only for the employer that submitted the I visa application for which the approval was granted.
I visa holder can study in the US by taking a few credits at a University as long as it does not harm the primary purpose of the visa. I visa holder cannot study full time like F1 visa holders. If an I visa holder wants to change a job, he/she can apply for change of status by having his/her employer file Form I-129, Petition for Non-immigrant Worker, at the USCIS Service Center with jurisdiction over the case. Spouse and unmarried children under the age of 21 years (dependents) who wish to accompany or join the primary media visa holder in the US for the duration of his/her stay can apply derivative I visa.
Dependent media visa are not available to finance(e), parents, in-laws or other relatives.
Rights and Restrictions:
Dependents of media visa holder are not allowed to work in the US, unless they obtain the appropriate work visa.
Dependents of media visa holder can study in the US without applying for student (F-1) visa.
Dependents that don't intend to stay in the US with the primary visa holder, but are visiting the US separately for vacation purposes should apply for visitor visa, instead of dependent media visa. Of course, they can as well enter under the Visa Waiver Program if they qualify.
