U.S. Non-Immigrant Work J Visas

The J-1 non-immigrant visa classification is for exchange visitors who come to the United States to participate in an exchange visitor program administered by the U.S. Department of State.  Generally, a citizen of a foreign country who wishes to enter the United States must first obtain a visa, either a non-immigrant visa for temporary stay, or an immigrant visa for permanent residence. Exchange visitor (J) visas are non-immigrant visas for individuals approved to participate in exchange visitor programs in the United States.

There are different programs within the J-1 category, including trainees, college or university students, secondary school students, professors and research scholars, short-term scholars, specialists, foreign medical graduates, international and government visitors, teachers, camp counselors, au pairs, and summer work/travel students.

Requirements for U.S. Non-Immigrant Work J Visas

Because J-1 visa classification incorporates several categories of visitors, the specific requirements may differ. However, the requirements common to all programs are as follows:

• Ability to demonstrate that one has a residence in a foreign country that s/he has no intention of abandoning
• A Certificate of Eligibility for Exchange Visitor (Form DS-2019) obtained from the program sponsor

How We Can Help You To Apply for U.S. Non-Immigrant Work J Visas

• IMIGRUS provides assistance and advice concerning J-1/J-2 visa applications to increase one’s chance of obtaining a visa at a consular post abroad, especially in case of previous denials and prior immigration status violations in the United States.
• IMIGRUS attorneys offer advice on J-1 status maintenance and employment matters and assist with change of status applications. We also offer advice regarding the two-year home residency requirement (HRR) and waiver.

• When would I use this type of visa?
Useful for individuals who want to come to the United States temporarily but do not have university degrees and receive an offer for training.

• How do I obtain one of these types of visas?
The J-1 Exchange Visitor Program is aimed at promoting cultural exchange. This visa may be an option for students, researchers, specialists, visiting faculty, and medical and industrial trainees. The J visa also in some cases may permit employment. Another advantage is that spouses may also obtain discretionary employment authorization.

• How long may I stay in the United States with this type of visa?
This visa may be granted for up to 18 months and has exemptions from certain taxes.

Exchange visitor categories include:

• Au pair and EduCare: A young adult lives with a host family for 12 months and experiences U.S. culture while providing child care and taking courses at an accredited U.S. post-secondary institution.
• Short-term Scholar: Professors, scholars, and other accomplished individuals travel on a short-term visit to lecture, observe, consult, train, or demonstrate special skills at U.S. research and academic institutions, museums, and libraries.
• Camp Counselor Specialist:
• Government Visitor:
• Student, college/university: Students study at a U.S. degree-granting post-secondary accredited academic institution, participating in a degree, nondegree, or student internship program.
• Intern: College and university students or recent graduates gain exposure to U.S. culture as they experience U.S. business practices in their chosen occupational field.
• Student, Secondary:
• International Visitor (Dept. of State use):
• Summer Work Travel: College and university students at foreign universities gain first-hand experience as they work in seasonal or temporary jobs and travel in the United States during their summer.
• Physician:
• Teacher:
• Professor and Research Scholar: These two categories promote the exchange of ideas, research, and linkages between research and academic institutions in the United States and foreign countries.
• Trainee: Professionals with a degree, professional certificate, or relevant work experience gain exposure to U.S. culture and receive training in U.S. business practices through a structured and guided work-based program.

Employer Opportunities for J-1 Program: 

Employers interested in transforming your business with international talent or training individuals to start overseas branches of your company will find an invaluable solution with the J-1 Visa.

How to Apply: 

• The first step in the process is to decide what type of participant you would like to hire from the list of programs. Each program has an information page specifically targeted to hosts and employers.
• The second step is contacting one of the Designated Sponsors for the chosen program. The Designated Sponsors are the organizations that administer the exchange program and connect hosts and employers with participants.

Employer Experiences
Find out how other employers are seeing the benefits of participating in the J-1 Visa Program.

Exchange Visitor Skills List