Exchange Visitor (J1)

Overview

The "J" visa is for educational and cultural exchange programs designated by the Department of State and Bureau of Consular Affairs to promote the interchange of persons, knowledge, and skills in the fields of education, arts, and sciences.

Period of Stay

The “J” visa is valid for a maximum period of one (1) year.

Eligibility Requirements

Participants in the exchange program must:

* have sufficient funds to cover all expenses or the sponsoring organization must provide funds to the participant in form of scholarship or stipend;
* have sufficient scholastic preparation to participate in the designated program including knowledge of the English language;
* pass the Foreign Medical Graduate Examination In Medical Sciences, English competency and undergo two-year foreign residency if they are participating in a program for graduate medical education and training;

Family Members

With the exception of "Q-1 Cultural Exchange Visitors," the spouse and unmarried, minor children of an applicant under any of the above classifications may also be classified as nonimmigrants in order to accompany or join the principal applicant. A person who has received a visa as the spouse or child of a temporary worker may not accept employment in the United States. The principal applicant must be able to show that he or she will be able to support his or her family in the United States.