J-1 Exchange Visitor Visa
Approved cultural and educational exchange programs.
Student & Exchange Visas
Overview
The J-1 visa is for individuals approved to participate in work- and study-based exchange visitor programs — including students, interns, trainees, teachers, professors, research scholars, physicians and au pairs. Some J-1 categories carry a two-year home-country physical presence requirement.
Who it's for
- Interns, trainees and research scholars on a designated program
- Exchange students, teachers and professors
- Physicians and au pairs in approved programs
Key points
Form DS-2019
Issued by a designated program sponsor; required to apply.
Program sponsor
A State Department–designated sponsor oversees your exchange.
212(e) rule
Some J-1 categories require returning home for two years before certain U.S. changes of status.
Disclaimer: We are not attorneys in the U.S. Kindly do not depend upon us for legal advice. Our scope of services is limited to documentation for immigration petitions.