J-1 visa

The J-1 visa is a non-immigrant visa issued by the United States to research scholars, professors, and exchange visitors participating in educational and cultural exchange programs designated by the U.S. Department of State. It is designed to promote mutual understanding between the people of the United States and other countries through educational and cultural exchange.

Purpose and Scope

The primary purpose of the J-1 visa is to facilitate cultural and educational exchange in various fields. Participants can come to the U.S. for a variety of programs, including:

• Au Pair: Provides childcare services in exchange for room, board, and a stipend.
• Camp Counselor: Works at summer camps, providing guidance and supervision to children.
• Intern/Trainee: Gains practical training in their field of study or career.
• Professor/Research Scholar: Engages in teaching, lecturing, conducting research, or observing at research institutions.
• Secondary School Student: Attends a U.S. high school for a specified period.
• Physician: Completes graduate medical training or education.
• Summer Work Travel: Allows foreign students to work and travel in the U.S. during their summer vacation.
• Teacher: Teaches at accredited primary or secondary schools.

Eligibility Requirements

To be eligible for a J-1 visa, applicants must:

• Meet the qualifications for a designated exchange visitor program.
• Be proficient in English.
• Have sufficient funds to cover their expenses in the U.S.
• Maintain health insurance coverage during their stay.
• Intend to return to their home country after completing their program.

Specific requirements vary depending on the category of the J-1 visa program.

Application Process

The application process generally involves the following steps:

1. Program Acceptance: The applicant must be accepted into a designated J-1 exchange visitor program.
2. Form DS-2019 (Certificate of Eligibility): The designated program sponsor provides the applicant with Form DS-2019, which is required for the visa application.
3. Visa Application: The applicant completes the online visa application form (DS-160) and pays the visa application fee.
4. Visa Interview: In most cases, the applicant attends an interview at a U.S. embassy or consulate in their home country.
5. Visa Issuance: If approved, the visa is issued and affixed to the applicant's passport.

Two-Year Home-Country Physical Presence Requirement

Some J-1 visa holders are subject to a two-year home-country physical presence requirement, also known as the 212(e) rule. This requirement mandates that the individual must return to their home country and reside there for at least two years after completing their J-1 program before they are eligible to apply for certain other visas (including H, L, or immigrant visas) or for adjustment of status to permanent resident. This requirement is generally triggered if the program was funded by the U.S. government, the home country government, or if the individual's field of study or expertise is deemed necessary by their home country. Waivers of this requirement may be possible under specific circumstances.

Dependents

Spouses and unmarried children under the age of 21 may be eligible for J-2 dependent visas to accompany the J-1 visa holder to the United States. J-2 visa holders may be eligible to apply for work authorization.

Program Sponsors

J-1 exchange visitor programs are administered by designated sponsors, which are organizations authorized by the U.S. Department of State to oversee exchange visitor programs. These sponsors are responsible for ensuring that participants meet the eligibility requirements and comply with the regulations of the J-1 visa program.

Disclaimer: Visa regulations and policies are subject to change. It is important to consult with the U.S. Department of State and/or a qualified immigration attorney for the most up-to-date information and guidance.