U.S. Student Visa for Exchange Visitors (J-1 Visa)

1. What is the eligibility criteria for the J-1 Exchange Visitor Visa?


The eligibility criteria for the J-1 Exchange Visitor Visa are as follows:

1. You must be sponsored by an exchange visitor program designated by the U.S. Department of State.

2. You must be at least 18 years of age.

3. You must demonstrate that you are qualified to participate in the program for which you have been accepted.

4. You must have sufficient financial resources to support yourself during your stay in the United States.

5. You must have a valid passport and visa.

6. You must be able to prove that you intend to return to your home country after completing your exchange visitor program.

2. How long can I stay in the U.S. on a J-1 Student Visa?


The maximum stay in the U.S. on a J-1 Student Visa is generally 18 months. However, some J-1 visas may be issued for up to 36 months. The duration of a J-1 visa is determined by the program sponsor and the U.S. Department of State.

3. What documents do I need to apply for a J-1 Visa?


You will need to provide the following documents to apply for a J-1 visa:

1. A valid passport
2. A Form DS-2019 (Certificate of Eligibility) issued by your sponsor.
3. A completed J-1 Visa Application Form (DS-160)
4. Two photographs taken within the past six months, meeting all the requirements for passport photos
5. Proof of sufficient funds to pay for your stay in the United States
6. Evidence of your academic background/professional qualifications
7. Documentation of your ties to your home country, such as evidence of family, property, or other commitments that will ensure your return following the completion of your program

4. Is there a fee to apply for a J-1 Visa?


Yes, there is a fee to apply for a J-1 visa. The fee is currently $160 USD, and must be paid before the application is submitted.

5. What are the medical requirements for obtaining a J-1 Student Visa?


The medical requirements for obtaining a J-1 Student Visa depend on the country issuing the visa. Generally, applicants must present a valid medical certificate from a doctor showing that they have successfully completed a physical examination within the last 12 months and are free of contagious diseases. Depending on the country, immunizations may also be required, such as proof of having been vaccinated against measles, mumps, rubella, and other diseases. Applicants may also be required to submit proof of having received treatment for any chronic medical condition.

6. How soon should I start the process of applying for a J-1 Visa?


It is recommended that you begin the process of applying for a J-1 Visa at least three months before your intended travel date. This will give you ample time to collect all the necessary documents and complete the visa application process.

7. What type of insurance must I obtain to be eligible for a J-1 Student Visa?


You must obtain an International Medical Insurance policy in order to be eligible for a J-1 Student Visa. The policy must meet certain requirements set forth by the U.S. Department of State and provide adequate coverage for the entire duration of your stay in the United States.

8. How do I extend my J-1 Student Visa?


You will need to contact the exchange visitor program sponsor listed on your Form DS-2019. Your sponsor will provide you with instructions on how to extend your J-1 Student Visa.

9. What if I want to change my visa status while in the U.S.?


It is possible to change your visa status in the U.S., but it is a complicated process. You must first determine if you are eligible to apply for a change of status. If you are, you must file the appropriate application with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and pay any applicable filing fees. Once your application has been processed, USCIS will either approve or deny your request for a change in status. If approved, your visa status will be changed and you will be allowed to remain in the U.S. under the new visa classification.

10. What type of activities am I allowed to participate in with a J-1 Student Visa?


The activities you are allowed to participate in with a J-1 Student Visa depend on the type of J-1 visa you have. Generally, J-1 Student Visas allow you to participate in academic studies, cultural exchange programs, or practical training related to your field of study. Depending on the type of J-1 Student Visa you have, you may also be able to work part-time or intern off-campus.

11. What if I have a criminal record; can I still get a J-1 Student Visa?


Yes, you may still be able to get a J-1 Student Visa. However, you will need to disclose any criminal record and submit additional documentation with your visa application. The U.S. consular officer may consider your criminal record when making their decision on your visa application.

12. Are there any restrictions on employment with a J-1 Student Visa?


Yes. You are allowed to work part-time on campus, but you are not allowed to work off-campus without permission from your Designated Responsible Officer. You are also limited to the number of hours you can work and you must be able to demonstrate that working will not interfere with your studies.

13. Can I bring my family with me when I come to the U.S. on a J-1 Student Visa?


Yes, you can bring your family with you if you plan to stay in the U.S. for more than 6 months. Your family members may apply for J-2 dependent visas and enter the U.S. along with you. However, the J-2 visa holders are not allowed to work in the U.S. and must obtain permission to do so if they wish to work.

14. Are there any taxes that must be paid on earnings while on a J-1 Student Visa?


Yes. All individuals who are in the U.S. on a J-1 Student Visa are required to pay taxes on any income earned during their stay in the U.S., including wages, scholarships, fellowships, and grants.

15. Can I work as an intern while I am in the U.S. with a J-1 Student Visa?


Yes, you are allowed to work as an intern in the U.S. with a J-1 Student Visa. According to the U.S. Department of State, the J-1 Student Visa allows you to participate in a program of academic study or training in the U.S. You can also participate in an internship program for up to 12 months as part of your studies in the U.S. You must contact the designated sponsor of your J-1 program to discuss and arrange any internships that you wish to pursue.

16. How do I obtain permission to work off-campus with a J-1 Student Visa?


In order to obtain permission to work off-campus with a J-1 Student Visa, you must first contact your school’s designated student services office or adviser. Your adviser can help you determine if you are eligible to apply for an off-campus work authorization. If you are eligible, your adviser will provide you with the necessary forms and guidance to complete the application process. Once approved, you will receive an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) that will allow you to work off-campus in your chosen field.

17. What is the visa waiver program and how do I apply for it?


The Visa Waiver Program (VWP) is a program of the U.S. government that allows citizens of certain countries to travel to the United States for business or tourism for stays of up to 90 days without having to obtain a visa. To be eligible for the VWP, travelers must apply for authorization through the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA). ESTA is an online system that can be accessed through the U.S. Department of Homeland Security website and provides an automated determination if an individual is eligible to travel or not.

18. Are there any other documents or requirements needed to obtain a J-1 Student Visa?


Yes. In order to obtain a J-1 Student Visa, you must also submit proof of financial support, academic transcripts, evidence of English language proficiency (if applicable), a statement of purpose, and a certificate of eligibility (Form DS-2019) issued by your sponsoring institution. You must also pass a medical examination and be prepared for an in-person interview with a U.S. consulate or embassy.

19. Can I travel outside of the U.S. while on my Exchange Visitor (J-1) visa?


Yes, you can travel outside the U.S. while on your J-1 visa. However, you must obtain a valid travel signature from your Responsible Officer (RO) or Alternate Responsible Officer (ARO) on your DS-2019 prior to departure. A travel signature is valid for 6 months within the validity dates indicated on your DS-2019.

20. How can I transfer to another college or university while on a J-1 visa?


You must obtain a transfer of your J-1 visa to another college or university. To do this, you must contact the sponsoring college or university from which you’re transferring. They will need to provide the new college or university with the documents necessary for the transfer. Once this is complete, then the new institution will be able to issue you a new Form DS-2019 which will allow you to continue your study in the US.