Ask-the-Consul Installment 24-11
The Exchange Visa Program (J-1) provides many opportunities for foreign nationals to visit the United States to teach, study, conduct research, demonstrate special skills, or receive on-the-job training for periods ranging from a few weeks to several years. Here are answers to some common questions about the program.
What is the purpose of the Exchange Visitor Program (EVP)?
The EVP is a U.S. Department of State initiative designed to promote mutual understanding between the people of the United States and other countries through educational and cultural exchanges. All exchange visitors are expected to return to their home country upon completion of their program to share their exchange experiences and newly acquired knowledge.
Who can participate in the Exchange Visitor Program?
The program is open to foreign nationals who meet the eligibility criteria for one of the specific categories of exchange visitors, such as students, interns, teachers, government visitors, physicians, researchers, trainees, and more.
See the full program categories and eligibility requirements for each category at https://j1visa.state.gov/programs/.
How do I apply for the Exchange Visitor Program?
Interested individuals must apply through a designated sponsor organization that is authorized by the U.S. Department of State to administer the program. The designated sponsor is responsible for selecting participants, providing pre-arrival information, and ensuring compliance with program regulations. A complete guide for applying to the program can be found at https://j1visa.state.gov/participants/how-to-apply/.
What are the requirements for obtaining the J-1 visa?
Requirements include being accepted into an exchange program by a designated sponsor, demonstrating sufficient proficiency in English, having adequate financial support, and maintaining health insurance coverage. For step-by-step visa application instructions, visit https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/study/exchange.html.
How long can exchange visitors stay in the United States?
The duration of stay depends on the specific category of the exchange program, ranging from a few weeks to several years. Your approved duration of stay will be specified on the Certificate of Eligibility (Form DS-2019) that you will receive from the designated sponsoring organization.
How long before my Exchange Visitor Program starts can I arrive in the United States? How long can I remain after my program ends?
You may not arrive more than 30 days before the program start date shown on your Form DS-2019, which is issued by the sponsoring organization. Upon completion of your exchange program, you have a grace period of 30 days to depart the United States.
Can J-1 visa holders work in the United States?
Yes, but the type of work and the number of hours are generally restricted to the terms of the exchange program category that the visa holder is participating in.
Can family members accompany J-1 visa holders to the United States?
Yes, family members can accompany J-1 visa holders. The spouse and unmarried children under the age of 21 of a J-1 visa holder can apply for J-2 visas. J-2 visa holders are allowed to stay in the United States for the duration of the J-1 visa holder’s program and must depart with the J-1 visa holder. They may also be eligible to apply for work authorization and attend school while in the United States. However, their ability to work is subject to approval by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
What is the two-year home-country physical presence requirement?
Some J-1 visa holders are required to return to their home country for at least two years after their exchange visitor program ends before they can apply for certain U.S. visas or permanent residency (a green card).
Can the two-year home-country physical presence requirement be waived?
Yes, waivers can be granted under specific circumstances, such as if the exchange visitor can demonstrate that returning to their home country would cause exceptional hardship or if their home country government provides a no-objection statement.
What should I do if I have problems during my exchange program?
Participants should contact their designated sponsor organization for assistance. Sponsors are responsible for providing support and ensuring the well-being of exchange visitors.
Need more information?
Detailed information about the program, eligibility requirements, program sponsors, and application procedures can be found at the Department of State J-1 visa website: https://j1visa.state.gov/participants/.
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“Ask the Consul” is a monthly column from the U.S. Embassy answering questions about U.S. immigration law and other Consular topics. Detailed information about visas can be viewed at https://gy.usembassy.gov/, https://ais.usvisa-info.com/, and https://ais.usvisa-info.com/. Information about American Citizen Services can be found at https://gy.usembassy.gov/u-s-citizen-services/.
Applicants are strongly encouraged to prepare their own documents and avoid third-party advice. Consular processes change frequently, and non-U.S. government advisors often provide inadequate or inaccurate information. Please contact our Visa Information Service Center using the contact information at https://ais.usvisa-info.com/en-gy/niv/information/contact_us if you have general visa questions.
