J-1 Exchange Visitor Visa

The J-1 Visa is a temporary nonimmigrant visa which allows foreign employees to work for designated sponsoring organizations. The purpose of the program is to increase mutual understanding between citizens of the United States and the people of other countries by means of educational and cultural exchanges.

This visa is available for:

• Au Pairs;
• Summer work/travel;
• Students participating in exchange programs (secondary and university/college);
• Research scholars;
• Alien physicians;
• People pursuing business and industrial training programs;
• Professors;
• Foreign nationals who are recognized as potential leaders or experts to engage in observation tours, discussions, consultation, professional meetings, and training; and
• Organizations authorized by the Department of State to sponsor foreign nationals for training.

Before applying for the visa, the applicant must be accepted as a participant in an American exchange program and be able to satisfy all the visa requirements.

Who qualifies?

The basic requirements for applicants are:

• Intention to remain in the U.S. for a temporary and limited period;
• A valid passport;
• An offer from a designated exchange program;
• Ability to meet all qualifying criteria for the exchange program they have entered into;
• Sufficient funds to cover expenses in the U.S.; and
• Intent to return to their country of nationality at the end of the program.

Accepted applicants must enter the U.S. 30 days or less in advance of the start of their exchange program. Spouses and dependent children under the age of 21 may receive J-2 visas and join the principle J-1 visa holder provided that they meet the basic requirements for a visa.

How does White & Associates help?

The legal staff at White & Associates is ready to help you find a suitable J-1 program in the U.S. and provide support with the application procedure. This application procedure is complicated by the fact that you must prove to the consular officer that you will return to your home country after your program is completed.

Please contact us for more information.