J-1 Programs

The J-1 visa covers several different programs; the length of time that the J-1 visa holder is allowed to remain in the U.S. will vary, depending upon the basis for the J-1 visa. The programs include full-time students, short-term scholars, trainees, teachers, professors and research scholars, experts, physicians, certain international or government visitors, camp counselors, and au pairs. Most J-1 visa holders are given a 30-day grace period at the conclusion of their stay in J-1 status in the U.S.

The list of available programs is endless. There are categories such as professors, scholars, scientists, college students, secondary school students, medical graduates, international and government visitors, etc. A summer employment is another feasible option for participants. After the J-1 visa program is complete, the participant must return to their home country for two years and apply the newly learned skills.

Usually, the dependents of a non-immigrant visa holder are prohibited from engaging in employment. J-2s, however, are permitted to work with USCIS authorization, as long as they are not supporting the J-1. The J-2 files the Application for Employment Authorization (I-765) with the applicable Service Center, along with documentation demonstrating that the employment is not required to support J-1 (this is most easily proven with evidence of the salary paid to the J-1).

J-1 Visa Requirements:

The qualifications for each program differ for each category, however, these are the common requirements to obtain the J-1 visa.