United States · Work Visas

J-1 exchange visitor

A non-immigrant visa for individuals approved to participate in work-and-study-based exchange visitor programs in the US (research scholars, professors, interns, trainees, physicians).

Who it suits

Who this pathway suits

Academics, postdocs, medical residents, interns, and trainees sponsored by designated exchange programs.

Eligibility

Eligibility at a glance

  • Accepted by a designated sponsor organization authorized by the Department of State
  • Issued Form DS-2019 (Certificate of Eligibility for Exchange Visitor Status)
  • Sufficient funds and English language proficiency
  • Check applicability of Section 212(e) 2-year home-country physical presence requirement
Process

How the process works

  1. Apply through designated sponsor
  2. Receive DS-2019
  3. Pay SEVIS I-901 fee
  4. Attend visa interview at US Embassy
Documents

Documents you will typically need

  • Form DS-2019, Form DS-7002 (Training Plan for interns/trainees), SEVIS receipt, passport
Good to know

What to keep in mind

Some J-1 visitors are subject to the two-year home residency rule (INA 212(e)), which must be waived before switching to H-1B or Green Card status.

Official source: U.S. Department of State — J-1 Visa Exchange Visitor Program. Government authorities make all final decisions; no outcome is guaranteed.

Is J-1 exchange visitor the right route for you?

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