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Exchange Visitors (J-1 Visa)
J-1 visas are nonimmigrant visas designed for those who intend to participate in an approved program for the purpose of teaching, instructing or lecturing, studying, observing, conducting research, consulting, demonstrating special skills, receiving training, or to receive graduate medical education or training.
In carrying out the responsibilities of the Exchange Visitor Program, the Department of State designates public and private entities to act as exchange sponsors. J-1 nonimmigrants are therefore sponsored by an exchange program that is designated as such by the U.S. Department of State. These programs are designed to promote the interchange or persons, knowledge, and skills, in the fields of education, arts, and science.
Examples of exchange visitors include:
In carrying out the responsibilities of the Exchange Visitor Program, the Department of State designates public and private entities to act as exchange sponsors. J-1 nonimmigrants are therefore sponsored by an exchange program that is designated as such by the U.S. Department of State. These programs are designed to promote the interchange or persons, knowledge, and skills, in the fields of education, arts, and science.
Examples of exchange visitors include:
- Professors or scholars
- Research assistants
- Students
- Trainees
- Teachers
- Specialists
- Nannies/Au Pair Program
- Camp counselors
As the U.S. Department of State is the primary entity involved in administering the J-1 program, the first step to obtain a J-1 visa is to submit a Form DS-2019, Certificate of Eligibility for Exchange Visitor Status, which will be provided by the sponsoring agency.
After you have obtained a Form DS-2019, you may then apply for a J-1 visa through the U.S. Department of State at a U.S. embassy or consulate. The waiting time for an interview appointment for applicants can vary, so submitting your visa application as early as possible is strongly encouraged (though you may not enter the United States in J-1 status more than 30 days before your program begins).
Your spouse and unmarried children under 21 years of age, regardless of nationality, are entitled to J-2 classification.
Employment is authorized for J-1 nonimmigrants only under the terms of the exchange program. Your spouse and children are entitled to work authorization; however, their income may not be used to support you.
After you have obtained a Form DS-2019, you may then apply for a J-1 visa through the U.S. Department of State at a U.S. embassy or consulate. The waiting time for an interview appointment for applicants can vary, so submitting your visa application as early as possible is strongly encouraged (though you may not enter the United States in J-1 status more than 30 days before your program begins).
Your spouse and unmarried children under 21 years of age, regardless of nationality, are entitled to J-2 classification.
Employment is authorized for J-1 nonimmigrants only under the terms of the exchange program. Your spouse and children are entitled to work authorization; however, their income may not be used to support you.
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