U.S. Exchange Visitor Visa Academic Advising

1. What is an exchange visitor visa and what is its purpose?


An exchange visitor visa is a visa issued to people who are coming to the United States temporarily for a variety of programs such as work-study, research, teaching, and cultural and educational exchanges. The purpose of the exchange visitor visa is to allow individuals to come to the United States for educational or cultural exchange programs that promote mutual understanding between the people of the United States and the people of other countries.

2. How do I apply for an exchange visitor visa?


To apply for an exchange visitor visa, you must first contact the organization or educational institution sponsoring your program. They will provide you with the necessary paperwork to submit to the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in your home country. You will need to schedule an appointment and attend an in-person interview with a consular officer. During the interview, you will be asked to present the paperwork you received from your sponsor, as well as any other documentation that may be required by the U.S. Embassy or Consulate.

3. What are the requirements for obtaining an exchange visitor visa?


The requirements for obtaining an exchange visitor visa include:

1. A signed and completed Form DS-2019, Certificate of Eligibility for Exchange Visitor (J-1) Status, issued by the Exchange Visitor Program sponsor, which must be accepted by the U.S. Department of State.

2. A valid passport, which shows all prior visa stamps and will remain valid for at least six months beyond the applicant’s period of stay in the United States.

3. Proof of sufficient financial funds to cover all expenses while in the United States.

4. Evidence of valid medical insurance that meets requirements set forth by the Department of State.

5. A completed application form (Form DS-160).

6. A photograph meeting the requirements of U.S. visa regulations.

4. What documents will I need to provide when applying for an exchange visitor visa?


You will need to provide the following documents when applying for an exchange visitor visa:

– A valid passport
– The DS-2019 or Certificate of Eligibility for Exchange Visitor (J-1) Status that was issued by your sponsoring program
– Evidence of financial support and/or a funding statement
– A letter of invitation from your host organization in the United States
– Evidence of your English language proficiency
– A completed and signed DS-160 Nonimmigrant Visa Application form
– Two recent passport-style photos
– Your visa application fee

5. What is the difference between a student visa and an exchange visitor visa?


A student visa is for individuals who are interested in studying in the United States and who are accepted as such by a participating school. This type of visa is usually issued for the duration of the applicant’s studies. An exchange visitor visa, also known as a J-1 visa, is intended for individuals who wish to participate in an approved exchange program in the United States. These programs can include educational and cultural exchanges, internships, training programs, and research. Exchange visitor visas are typically issued for time periods based on the length of the program.

6. Is there a fee to apply for an exchange visitor visa?


Yes, there is a fee for applying for an exchange visitor visa. The fee varies depending on the type of visa you are applying for.

7. How long is an exchange visitor visa valid for?


Exchange visitor visas (J-1 Visas) are typically valid for the duration of the exchange program, up to 18 months. The visa can also be valid for anywhere from a few weeks up to 5 years depending on the type of exchange program and the individual’s specific circumstances.

8. Are there any special considerations for students seeking an exchange visitor visa?


Yes, students who are seeking an exchange visitor visa must meet certain qualifications. These qualifications include being proficient in English, having adequate financial resources to cover the duration of the program, and demonstrating that they have a legitimate educational and cultural exchange purpose. They must also be enrolled in a full-time degree program or related academic program, and must have a signed agreement from their home institution and school abroad. Additionally, they must provide proof of health insurance coverage for the duration of their stay and proof of return transportation from the US.

9. What are the requirements for maintaining a valid exchange visitor visa?


In order to maintain a valid exchange visitor visa, the exchange visitor must:
– Follow the program rules and activities provided by the sponsor
– Remain in the program for the duration authorized
– Participate in activities listed on the DS-2019 form
– Maintain a valid passport
– Report changes in program information or address to both the sponsor and Department of Homeland Security
– Obtain approval from the sponsor before engaging in any activities not listed on the DS-2019
– Make sure to update any changes regarding personal information from the sponsor and Department of Homeland Security
– Obtain prior approval before engaging in any outside employment or transferring programs.

10. What is the process for renewing or extending an exchange visitor visa?


The process for renewing or extending an exchange visitor visa depends on the type of visa and the individual’s particular circumstances. Generally, to renew or extend an exchange visitor visa, an individual must file Form I-539, Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status, with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). After filing the application, the individual will receive a receipt notice from USCIS that will include the date and time the application was received. The individual will then receive a decision from USCIS regarding their request. Depending on the circumstances, it may also be necessary to submit additional documents or to attend an interview with a USCIS officer. Once a decision is made, the individual will receive a notice in the mail regarding the outcome of their request.

11. What are the risks associated with having an expired or invalid exchange visitor visa?


The risks associated with having an expired or invalid exchange visitor visa are significant, and can include being denied entry to the United States, deportation from the United States, and being unable to re-enter the U.S. in the future. Additionally, overstaying in the U.S. on an expired or invalid visa is a violation of immigration law and may result in a fine or ineligibility for certain immigration benefits.

12. Do I have to return to my home country after my exchange visitor visa expires?


Yes. You must leave the US before your visa expires. If you stay in the US beyond the expiration date, you may be violating the terms of your visa and may be subject to deportation and other penalties.

13. Are there restrictions on how much time I can stay in the U.S. on an exchange visitor visa?


Yes, you are not allowed to stay in the U.S. on an exchange visitor visa for more than 12 months out of a three year period, unless you obtain an extension.

14. What kind of activities am I allowed to engage in while on an exchange visitor visa?


While on an exchange visitor visa, you are typically allowed to participate in activities related to your specific exchange visitor program, such as study, observation, research, teaching, consulting, and short-term training. The specific activities you are allowed to participate in are determined by the exchange visitor program sponsor.

15. Are there any restrictions on where I am allowed to travel while on an exchange visitor visa?


Yes, there are restrictions on travel while on an exchange visitor visa. You must have prior authorization from the Department of State before traveling to certain countries. Additionally, you may be subject to immigration restrictions in the countries you visit.

16. How do I contact the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate for advice about my exchange visitor visa application?


You can contact the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate for advice about your exchange visitor visa application by calling the State Department’s visa information line at 1-800-344-4831 (toll-free in the U.S./Canada) or 202-647-5225 (international callers) during regular business hours or by visiting the U.S. Embassy or Consulate website in your home country for assistance.

17. Are there any restrictions on the type of employment I am allowed to have while in the U.S. on an exchange visitor visa?


Yes, there are restrictions on the type of employment allowed while in the U.S. on an exchange visitor visa. You cannot accept employment outside of the purpose of your exchange program. You may not work for any employer other than the sponsor of your exchange program, and you may not receive any wages or salary from any source other than your sponsor. Furthermore, you may not engage in any self-employment activities, and you cannot accept remuneration from any U.S. source other than your designated sponsor.

18. What are some tips for maximizing the success of my exchange visitor visa application?


1. Make sure to thoroughly prepare all the necessary documents and fill out all the required forms carefully.
2. Ensure that you meet all of the program’s eligibility criteria and that your application is complete and accurate.
3. Provide a detailed and clear explanation of your proposed exchange program activities in your application.
4. Make sure to attend all interviews or meetings required by the exchange program.
5. Be honest and straightforward in your responses to any questions asked by program officers or immigration officials.
6. Have all documents notarized, certified, or otherwise authenticated when necessary.
7. Follow up with relevant agencies if necessary to ensure that your application is processed in a timely manner.
8. Remain in contact with the exchange program throughout the application process to answer any questions they may have about your exchange visitor experience or goals.

19. Are there any additional resources available to help me with my exchange visitor visa application process?


Yes, there are additional resources available to help with the exchange visitor visa application process. The State Department has compiled an Exchange Visitor Program (EVP) Toolkit that provides detailed information and resources for exchange visitors. Organizations such as the Alliance for International Exchange also offer resources that can assist exchange visitors with their visa application process. Additionally, exchange visitors can seek assistance from a qualified immigration attorney.

20. Is there a maximum number of years that I can stay in the U.S. on an exchange visitor visa?


The maximum amount of time you can stay in the U.S. on an exchange visitor visa is dependent on the type of program you are participating in. Generally, exchange visitor visas (J-1) are issued for the length of time needed to complete the program, up to a maximum of 18 months. However, some programs may be longer or shorter in duration. It is important to speak with your sponsor or contact person at the organization hosting your program to determine the exact duration of your J-1 visa.