The J visa is a popular category for participants in exchange programs that promote cultural exchange between the United States and other countries. It covers a wide range of programs, including academic study, internships, teaching, research, and more.

Here’s a breakdown of the J visa:

Purpose: The J visa allows foreign nationals to participate in exchange programs in the U.S. These programs focus on cultural exchange and can involve academic study, teaching, research, training, professional development, and other activities.

• J-1 Student: For foreign nationals participating in academic programs at accredited U.S. institutions.
• J-1 Scholar: For research scholars and professors participating in research or teaching programs at U.S. institutions.
• J-1 Trainee: For interns and trainees acquiring practical experience in their field at U.S. businesses, research institutions, or government agencies.
• J-1 Teacher: For foreign teachers coming to the U.S. to teach in primary or secondary schools.
• J-1 Camp Counselor: For foreign nationals working as counselors at summer camps.
• Au Pair: For young people providing childcare and light housekeeping services for U.S. families.

The requirements for a J visa will vary depending on the specific program category. In general, you will need:

• Acceptance into a U.S. Department of State-designated exchange program. The program sponsor will issue you a DS-2019 form, “Certificate of Eligibility for Exchange Visitor Status.”
• Valid passport from your home country.
• Proof of sufficient financial resources to cover your expenses while in the U.S. (depending on the program).
• Meet any program-specific requirements (e.g., educational background, language skills).

Yes, spouses and unmarried children under the age of 21 of J visa holders may be eligible for a derivative J-2 visa. This allows them to accompany the J-1 visa holder to the U.S. for the duration of the program.

• J-2 Dependent: To qualify for a J-2 visa, the spouse and children must show their relationship to the J-1 visa holder through a marriage certificate or birth certificate, respectively.
• Duration of Stay: The J-2 visa is usually valid for the duration of the J-1 visa holder’s program but no more than four years.
• Activities: J-2 dependents are generally not allowed to work for pay in the U.S. However, spouses with a J-2 visa may apply for a separate authorization to work (EAD) under certain circumstances. Consult with an immigration attorney for details.

1. Get Accepted into a J Visa Program: Find a program sponsor and get accepted into a Department of State-designated J visa exchange program.
2. Receive Form DS-2019: The program sponsor will issue you a Form DS-2019 after your acceptance.
3. Pay SEVIS Fee: Pay the mandatory SEVIS fee for all J visa applicants.
4. Complete Online Visa Application (DS-160): This form collects your biographical information and travel plans. https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas.html
5. Schedule a Visa Interview (if required): A visa interview at a U.S. embassy or consulate in your home country may be required. You can find this information on the program sponsor’s website or the Department of State’s website.
6. Attend the Visa Interview (if required). Be prepared to answer questions about your participation in the exchange program and your plans after the program ends. Bring your Form DS-2019 and any other supporting documents.

The processing time for a J visa can vary depending on the workload at the U.S. embassy or consulate and your program category. It typically takes anywhere from a few weeks to several months.