Who can apply for the J-1 visa?

Any individual approved by a designated sponsoring organization can apply. Participants include students, interns, trainees, teachers, professors, research scholars, and specialists.

What is the purpose of the J-1 visa?

The J-1 visa promotes cultural exchange by allowing individuals to engage in work and study-based exchange programs in the United States, fostering mutual understanding.

How long can I stay in the U.S. on a J-1 visa?

The duration of stay depends on the specific exchange program you're participating in, ranging from a few weeks to several years.

SEVIS stands for Student and Exchange Visitor Information System, a database that manages information about your stay in the U.S. You must pay a SEVIS fee to maintain your records.

Is there a fee to apply for the J-1 visa?

Yes, there is an application fee (non-refundable), and you may also need to pay the SEVIS fee and a visa issuance fee depending on your nationality.

Can I work on a J-1 visa?

Employment is allowed but typically limited to the sponsor-approved role within the exchange program. Any additional or outside employment must be authorized.

Do I need health insurance for a J-1 visa?

Yes, J-1 visa holders are required to have health insurance that meets specific criteria set by the Department of State during their stay.

How do I extend my J-1 visa?

Extensions depend on your program, and you must request it through your sponsor. They will process the extension if it aligns with your program rules.

Can my family come with me on a J-1 visa?

Yes, spouses and unmarried children under 21 can accompany you on J-2 visas, which allow them to study and apply for work authorization.

United States of America J-1 Exchange Visitor Program Guide

Find out everything you need to know about United States of America J-1 Exchange Visitor Program application process and requirements.

What Is the United States of America J-1 Exchange Visitor Program?

The J-1 Exchange Visitor Program is a visa designed for individuals who seek to participate in work and study-based exchange visitor programs in the United States. It targets a variety of participants such as students, interns, trainees, teachers, professors, research scholars, and specialists. The program aims to foster global understanding through educational and cultural exchanges, benefiting both the visitors and the American hosts by promoting cross-cultural experiences and mutual enrichment.

J-1 Exchange Visitor Program Requirements for United States of America

Explore the key requirements for obtaining your J-1 Exchange Visitor Program for United States of America. This section covers the necessary documentation, eligibility criteria, and any specific conditions you must meet to successfully apply for and secure your visa.

Sponsorship from a Designated Program Sponsor
You must secure a sponsor identified by the U.S. State Department, who will support your application and ensure you fulfill the program prerequisites.
Form DS-2019
After securing a sponsor, obtain a Form DS-2019, the Certificate of Eligibility for Exchange Visitor (J-1) Status, which your sponsor will issue.
SEVIS Fee Receipt
After receiving DS-2019, pay the SEVIS fee and retain the receipt for submission during the visa interview.
Completed DS-160
Fill out the DS-160 online form, print the confirmation page, and bring it to your visa interview.
Visa Application Fee
Pay the non-refundable visa application fee, which is required before scheduling your interview.
Proof of Ties to Home Country
Provide evidence that you have sufficient ties to your home country, such as a job, family connections, or property, to ensure that you plan to return after completing the program.
Required Documentation
Gather additional documentation for the visa interview, such as passport, photo, DS-2019, DS-160 confirmation, proof of financial stability, and academic or professional credentials.

How to Apply for United States of America J-1 Exchange Visitor Program

Understand the process of applying for an United States of America J-1 Exchange Visitor Program, including key steps, document submission, and what to expect throughout the application.

Secure a Program Sponsor
Find and obtain a sponsorship from a designated J-1 visa sponsor organization. These sponsors are responsible for screening and selecting eligible participants, as well as supporting them throughout their stay in the United States.
Pay the SEVIS Fee
Once your sponsor issues DS-2019, you need to pay the SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System) fee. This fee is necessary for maintaining your information in the SEVIS database.
Complete the DS-160 Form
Fill out the online application form DS-160 on the Consular Electronic Application Center (CEAC) website. Print the confirmation page after submission as you'll need it during your visa interview.
Schedule Visa Interview
Book your interview appointment at the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. Be prepared to provide your DS-160 confirmation number and DS-2019 form.
Attend the Visa Interview
Go to your scheduled visa interview with all required documentation. The consular officer will determine if you qualify for the J-1 visa.
Pay the Visa Issuance Fee
Depending on your nationality, you may need to pay a visa issuance fee once your application is approved. This fee is different from the visa application fee and SEVIS fee.

Useful United States of America J-1 Exchange Visitor Program Resources

U.S. Department of State - Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs

U.S. Visa Information and Appointment Services

Consular Electronic Application Center (CEAC)

Official U.S. Government Immigration and Visa Website

United States of America J-1 Exchange Visitor Program Advice

When applying for the J-1 visa, make sure to start the process early, as securing a sponsor can take time. Carefully review and organize your documents to avoid any delays. Remember, you must maintain compliance with the program regulations, such as keeping your SEVIS fee paid and ensuring your passport remains valid. It's also important to be fully aware of any health insurance requirements set by your program sponsor and to understand the two-year home-country physical presence requirement, which may apply after your program ends.

United States of America J-1 Exchange Visitor Program Guide

What Is the United States of America J-1 Exchange Visitor Program?

J-1 Exchange Visitor Program Requirements for United States of America

Sponsorship from a Designated Program Sponsor

Form DS-2019

SEVIS Fee Receipt

Completed DS-160

Visa Application Fee

Proof of Ties to Home Country

Required Documentation

How to Apply for United States of America J-1 Exchange Visitor Program

Secure a Program Sponsor

Pay the SEVIS Fee

Complete the DS-160 Form

Schedule Visa Interview

Attend the Visa Interview

Pay the Visa Issuance Fee

Useful United States of America J-1 Exchange Visitor Program Resources

United States of America J-1 Exchange Visitor Program Advice

Frequently Asked Questions

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