Book Appointment
Onal Gallant

J-1 Visa

The J-1 visa enables temporary entry into the United States for participation in approved exchange visitor programs. As a nonimmigrant visa, its goal is to foster global understanding through educational and cultural exchange. Annually, nearly 300,000 participants from about 200 countries engage in activities like studying, teaching, research, skill demonstration, and on-the-job training or internships.

Administered by the Department of State's Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA) in coordination with DHS agencies (USCIS, ICE, CBP), the J-1 program requires sponsorship from a government-designated organization. Strict regulations govern eligibility, activities, stay duration, and employment.

Eligibility Requirements

What is Form DS-2019

The Form DS-2019 is the primary document certifying eligibility for a J-1 program. Issued by the sponsor via SEVIS, it contains participant details, sponsor info, program description (dates, category, costs), and is required for visa application, U.S. entry, and employment verification (where permitted). It reflects the participant's current status and must be kept valid and accurate. Changes require updates in SEVIS and potentially a new DS-2019.

J-1 Visa Programs

J-1 Intern Program

  • Purpose: For foreign students/recent graduates to gain U.S. cultural exposure and practical experience in their academic field.   
     
     
  • Eligibility: Current foreign post-secondary student OR graduated within 12 months prior to program start. English proficiency required.   
     
     
     
  • Duration: Max 12 months.   
     
     
  • Key Features: Requires Form DS-7002. Focuses on entry-level training. Prohibits unskilled labor, childcare, elder care, patient care, and >20% clerical work. Requires structured learning and evaluations.   
     
     
     
  • Sponsor/Host Responsibilities: Vetting hosts, verifying EIN/workers’ comp, ensuring supervision/evaluation.   
     

J-1 Trainee Program

  • Purpose: For experienced foreign professionals to gain U.S. cultural exposure and advanced training.   
     
     
  • Eligibility: Foreign degree/certificate + 1 yr related work experience (outside U.S.) OR 5 yrs work experience (outside U.S.). English proficiency needed.   
     
     
     
     
  • Duration: Max 18 months (often 12 months for hospitality/tourism).   
     
     
     
  • Key Features: Requires Form DS-7002. Must build on existing skills, not duplicate prior experience or be ordinary employment. Similar restrictions as Intern program. Requires evaluations.   
     
     
     
     
     
  • Sponsor/Host Responsibilities: Similar vetting and oversight as Intern program.   
     

J-1 Summer Work and Travel (SWT) Program

  • Purpose: For foreign post-secondary students to work and travel in the U.S. during their summer break.   
     
     
  • Eligibility: Full-time post-secondary student enrolled outside the U.S., completed at least one semester, English proficient. Usually requires a pre-arranged job.   
     
     
  • Duration: Max 4 months (during official summer vacation). No extensions.   
     
     
  • Key Features: Employment must be seasonal/temporary with cultural interaction. Many job types prohibited (e.g., domestic help, driving, patient care, late shifts, hazardous jobs, commission-only sales).   
     
  • Sponsor Responsibilities: Vetting jobs, ensuring minimum wage compliance, providing pre-arrival info, monthly contact, addressing safety concerns.   
     
     

Repeat participation often requires significant time outside the U.S. (e.g., two years between trainee programs).

J-1 Application Process

Step 1: Secure Offer
Get an offer from a U.S. host organization.

Step 2: Find Sponsor
Be accepted by a DOS-designated sponsor.

Step 3: DS-2019 Issued
Sponsor issues the official Form DS-2019 via SEVIS.

Step 4: Pay SEVIS Fee
Applicant pays I-901 fee online (unless exempt).

Step 5: Complete DS-160
Applicant fills out the online visa application.

Step 6: Visa Interview
Schedule and attend interview at U.S. Embassy/Consulate with required documents and fees.

Step 7: Visa Issuance/Entry
If approved, visa is issued. Enter U.S. no more than 30 days before DS-2019 start date.

Questions? You’re covered.

Use the official BridgeUSA website list or work with services connecting applicants and sponsors.

Interns are students/recent grads (max 12 mos); Trainees are experienced professionals (max 18 mos, 12 for hospitality). Both need DS-7002.

No. Only activities on your DS-2019 are permitted.

Contact Our Attorneys

CALL US DIRECTLY
Contact Us

Contact Us

News and blog

Let Us Handle Your Legal Matters

Book A Consultation Today