J-1 Visa

Atlanta Immigration Services – J-1 Visa Overview

A J-1 visa is a non-immigrant visa issued by the United States to support educational and cultural exchange programs, promoting the sharing of knowledge, skills, and experiences in fields such as education, arts, sciences, and especially for medical or business training within the U.S. This visa allows eligible individuals to participate in exchange visitor or internship programs in the United States. All applicants must meet specific eligibility criteria and be sponsored by a private sector or government program.

The J-1 visa is a valuable opportunity for students requiring practical training that is not available in their home country. The training must be directly related to the academic program. A key stipulation of the J-1 visa is the two-year home-country physical presence requirement, which mandates that the individual must return home for at least two years before qualifying for an immigrant (permanent) visa.

Note: J-1 visa holders include students, interns, scholars, researchers, and consultants. While some J-1 holders are permitted paid training, exchange students are generally not allowed to work.

Eligibility Criteria

As per the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA), applicants must demonstrate:

• Intent to stay in the U.S. for a specific and temporary duration.
• Sufficient funds to cover all expenses during their stay.
• Strong social and economic ties to their home country that assure their return after the program.

Required Documentation

Applicants must submit the following to a U.S. Embassy or Consulate:

• SEVIS-generated Form DS-2019, issued by the program sponsor.
• Form DS-7002 for trainees/interns (not needed if DS-2019 issued before July 19, 2007).
• DS-160 online form for each applicant and family member; print the confirmation page.
• A valid passport (must be valid at least 6 months beyond the intended stay).
• One 2×2 inch photograph (see U.S. visa photo requirements).
• Evidence of strong home-country ties (social, economic, professional, etc.).

Visa Interview Process

An interview is mandatory for applicants aged 14 to 79. Interviews are typically not required for children under 13 or adults over 80 unless specifically requested. It’s important to apply early, as interview wait times may vary.

If accompanied by family, the applicant’s spouse and children will also receive their own Form DS-2019, allowing them to apply simultaneously. During the visa appointment, digital fingerprint scanning is conducted, and some applicants may undergo additional screening.

How to Apply

1. Visit the U.S. embassy website and begin the application process.
2. Fill out Form DS-160 and print the confirmation page.
3. Obtain Form DS-2019 and an invitation letter from your U.S. sponsor.
4. Pay the SEVIS fee online at www.ice.gov/sevis and retain the receipt.
5. Submit any additional documents required in your application portal.

Duration of Stay

J-1 visa holders may stay in the U.S. for the duration of their program as indicated on Form DS-2019. After completion, they are granted a 30-day grace period to prepare for departure. Re-entry during this grace period is not permitted.

Duration varies based on the J-1 visa category. Once the stay concludes, the J-1 visa holder and dependents must exit the U.S.

Spouses and Children – J-2 Visa

Spouses and unmarried children under 21 can apply for J-2 dependent visas. They may enter with or join the primary visa holder later. Dependents can work if they prove they can financially support themselves.

Each dependent must have their own Form DS-2019 issued by the sponsor, which is required for their visa application.

Employment Conditions

Employment for J-1 visa holders depends on the type of exchange program. Programs may allow on-the-job training, research, or teaching with pay. If the program does not include employment, the visa holder may not work outside of it.

The Q Visa program is another cultural exchange route that permits paid employment as part of its structure.

For comprehensive support and expert guidance on J-1 visa processing, contact Atlanta Immigration Services — your trusted partner in global mobility and U.S. immigration pathways.