Dear all,
This post is slightly off topic, my apologies for this. Is there anybody
that can advise me on the following:
I am an archaeology PhD student at the University of Bradford and in
November I am travelling to the United States for 4-6 wks on a study visit
to record some faunal assemblages as a part of my PhD research. This has
been personally organised and self funded. I have been trying to figure
out if I require a visa or can travel visa free under the visa waiver
programme that the UK holds with the United States. I have trawled through
the US embassy website and spoken to an advisor on the phone but I am
still a little confused.
It is my understanding that as long as my research is classed
as 'independant',i.e. I am receiving no money for doing it (other than
expenses) and the institution that I am conducted my research at in the
states will not benefit from the research in anyway then I can travel
without a visa under the VWP. If I were being paid to conduct this
research and it was classed 'collaborative' then I would be required to
apply for a J1 (exchange student) visa.
Therefore, am I correct in my assumption that I do not require a visa to
look at these faunal assemblages?
Has anybody had a similar experience who can advise me?
Thank you in advance for your time and advice, it is greatly appreciated.
Best regards
Jen
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