Last Updated on October 4, 2024
The J-1 visa is known as the Exchange Visitor visa. Individuals with this visa type can participate in visitor programs for work and study, with the goal of also gaining exposure to the culture in the U.S.
Let’s dive into the J-1 visa, including J-1 visa requirements, the J-1 application process and new updates.
J-1 Visa Categories
The J-1 category is limited to certain positions/purposes. The following is the full list of J-1 categories:
- Au pair
- Camp counselor
- Government visitor
- Intern
- International visitor
- Physician
- Professor
- Research scholar
- Short-term scholar
- Specialist
- Student
- Summer work travel
- Teacher
- Trainee
J-1 Visa Requirements
There are multiple J-1 visa requirements to be aware of that apply both to the primary visa holder and any dependents. Requirements vary based on the reason for seeking a J-1 visa. For details on the specific requirements for each category, refer to the State Department’s website.
How to Apply for the J-1 Visa
To obtain a J-1 visa, individuals must intend to participate in an approved program in the U.S. for the purposes of teaching, instructing, lecturing, observing, studying, conduction research, consulting or demonstrating special skills. Individuals may also obtain a J-1 visa to receive training, including graduate medical education or training.
If you are wondering how to apply for a J-1 visa, note that the application process includes several steps.
The first step to obtain a J-1 visa is to apply through an approved J-1 sponsor organization. If the sponsoring organization accepts the person, according to the guidelines of the program, the J-1 organization will issue a Form DS-2019, Certificate of Eligibility for Exchange Visitor Status. This form is necessary for a person to apply for a J-1 visa.
After obtaining Form DS-2019, individuals may apply for a J-1 visa through the State Department at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate. A person already in the U.S. in a different nonimmigrant status may apply for change of status to J-1, assuming they entered on a status that is eligible for change of status.
After obtaining the visa in the passport, the person may travel to the U.S. for entry in J-1 status. Regardless of when the visa is issued, a person who receives a J-1 visa may not enter the U.S. more than 30 days before the J-1 program starts.
J-1 Visa Updates
In 2022, The U.S. State Department implemented measures to solicit more talent in the science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) fields. To do so, the State Department added more fields to the list of STEM occupations. It also launched the Early Career STEM Research Initiative, which connects J-1 program sponsors with STEM sponsors, including businesses.
This program encourages U.S. employers to host J-1 visitors as trainees, specialists, scholars, etc. However, a U.S. company can sponsor a J-1 only through an approved/designated J-1 sponsor organization. Some companies petition to become a J-1 sponsor organization themselves, although that process involves time and commitment.
J-1 Visa Validity Period
The J-1 visa’s validity period varies based on the J-1 category. Some J-1 visa categories have a validity period up to five years.
Spouses and Children Accompanying the J-1 Exchange Visitor
J-1 visa holders may bring their spouse and/or unmarried children under the age of 21. Dependents are permitted regardless of nationality. The accompanying spouse and/or children receive a J-2 visa. A dependent spouse may work on a J-2 visa, but it does require filing an application for employment authorization (Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization) with the applicable evidence to receive authorization to work.
Current Form I-765 prices are listed below as of April 1, 2024:
Envoy Global and the J-1 Visa
Envoy Global is here to help if you want to learn more about the J-1 visa. Our experienced and knowledgeable team and robust immigration technology platform provide all the support that applicants and employers need for a J-1 visa.
Contact us to see how we can assist you with the Schedule A occupation process and any additional corporate immigration questions you might have.
Envoy Global is pleased to provide you with this information, which was prepared in collaboration with Sherry Neal, Partner, at Corporate Immigration Partners, P.C., a U.S. law firm who provides services through the Envoy Platform (the “U.S. Law Firm”).
Content in this publication is for informational purposes only and not intended as legal advice, nor should it be relied on as such. Envoy is not a law firm, and does not provide legal advice. If you would like guidance on how this information may impact your particular situation and you are a client of the U.S. Law Firm, consult your attorney. If you are not a client of the U.S. Law Firm working with Envoy, consult another qualified professional. This website does not create an attorney-client relationship with the U.S. Law Firm.
