J1-Visa (Exchange Visitor Program) FAQs

What is a J1 (Exchange Visitor Visa) visa?

 J-1 visas are considered exchange visitor visas and are given to participants in the Exchange Visitor Program, which is supervised by the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs of the US Department of State (USDS).  J-1 visas are allowed to obtain a Social Security Number, so they can be legally rewarded.

What is a J1 (Exchange Visitor Visa) visa?

 J-1 visas are considered exchange visitor visas and are given to participants in the Exchange Visitor Program, which is supervised by the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs of the US Department of State (USDS).  J-1 visas are allowed to obtain a Social Security Number, so they can be legally rewarded.

How long can I stay in the US with a Exchange Visitor Visa?

From 3 months to 18 months depending upon the internship, the applicant’s choice or the Host Company’s offer.

How long can I stay in the US with a Exchange Visitor Visa?

From 3 months to 18 months depending upon the internship, the applicant’s choice or the Host Company’s offer.

What are the most important steps in the process of Exchange Visitor Visa?

To obtain a J-1 visa, candidate needs to get selected for an internship/ trainee/ cultural exchange program by a Host company. Candidate also needs an approved program plan for the duration of the visa applying for. Work Study can obtain it for you hassle and stress free!

What is the difference between Internship and Trainee program under J1 visa?

Essentially the candidate’s study gap determines whether they can apply under internship or trainee program. Internship is for students and new graduates with no more than one year of study gap. A candidate is allowed to start application while in the last semester of their current study course.

The internship program is targeted for +2 graduates, Bachelor students and the trainee program is targeted for Bachelor graduates, Master’s pursuers generally.

Do I need to get DS-2019 before booking an USA embassy visa interview?

You will need to bring your DS-2019 with you during the interview, but it is also important to make an appointment for the interview with plenty of time. You have to make an appointment for the interview by referring to the expected date of acquisition of DS-2019. Work Study can help you plan the entire process including required documents for the J1 (Exchange Visitor Visa) visa. So, we will guide you step by step.

Is it difficult to get the DS-2019 form?

The DS-2019 form, which is also called “Certificate of Eligibility” is issued by a US Department of State-designated sponsor organization.  Work Study will help you in choosing the suitable sponsor as well as see to it that you timely receive the DS 2019 and other relevant forms.

At Work Study we arrange end-to-end service and take care of all the essential documents. For a smooth and hassle-free Program offer, contact us via our social medias!!

Are J1 (Exchange Visitor Visa) visa holders allowed to work at other places besides the Host Company?

No. Your J1 (Exchange Visitor Visa) visa indicates that you will be paid for the internship and that is the only paid placement you can participate in.

Does all J1 (Exchange Visitor Visa) visa have 2 year rule? Does the J1 (Exchange Visitor Visa) status end after the agreed months of the internship program?

Exchange visitors with J-1 visas are subject to a two-year home-country physical presence requirement.  It requires you to return home for at least two years after your exchange visitor program. However depending on the participant’s performance during the first internship duration, a Host Company may want to extend the internship program. A waiver of the ‘2 year rule’ has to be obtained from the host company as well as the immigration department.

Can I apply for J1 (Exchange Visitor Visa) visa more than once?

Yes, you can apply for J1 (Exchange Visitor Visa) visa multiple times.

When can I enter the USA after receiving J1 (Exchange Visitor Visa) visa sanction?

Once you have obtained your J-1 visa, you are ready to travel to the U.S. Immigration regulations allow you to enter the U.S. no earlier than 30 days prior to the start date of your program.

How can I stay in USA after J1 (Exchange Visitor Visa) visa?

If you do not have any other extended visa stamped on your Passport, you have to exit the USA at the end of visa expiry date. Any attempt of illegal extension attempt of your stay can result into deportation and USA visa ban for life. However, waiver is available under certain conditions.

Do I get a chance to travel within USA under J1 (Exchange Visitor Visa) visa?

Yes! The visa is granted with extra days at the end of internship/ trainee program so that you can stay for the purpose of traveling for 30 days after the visa grant date.

Do I have an option of studying further education in USA after completing J1 (Exchange Visitor Visa) visa?

Ideally, you have to leave USA at the end of J1 (Exchange Visitor Visa) visa duration. But certain exemptions apply- you can get an option to apply for a change visa status with the Immigration Department while you are still in the United States. Another option is returning to your home country at the end of J1 (Exchange Visitor Visa) visa and arrange study visa. Conditions applicable as per country of your origin.

Where is the J1 (Exchange Visitor Visa) visa issued for?

J1 (Exchange Visitor Visa) Internship and Training visa area can be allocated anywhere in the United States (including Hawaii, Guam, and Alaska), from few weeks to up to 18 months. Generally location of your program will not change after accepting the program offer. However the Host Company can decide to allot the candidate to their other sites within USA (including Hawaii, Guam, and Alaska).

Interested in the program? Apply with us from today!