J Visas

Purpose:

allows individuals who are participating in an exchange visitor program designated by the U.S. government to come to the U.S. temporarily; there are several different categories of J visas, and the major categories are briefly described below

Requirements:

(1) participation in an exchange visitor program designated by the U.S. government; the specific requirements for each J visa category differ

Duration of visa:

variable (depending upon the category)

Description:

The J visa allows you to come to the U.S. temporarily if you are participating in a government-approved exchange program. There are several different categories of exchange visitors, among them (1) professors or research scholars coming to the U.S. to teach, lecture, research, observe, or consult; (2) foreign physicians coming to the U.S. to pursue graduate medical training or education; (3) individuals coming to the U.S. to work as a summer camp counselor; (4) university students coming to the U.S. to work during their summer holidays; and (5) individuals between the ages of 18 and 26 coming to the U.S. to work as an au pair. For all categories, you must be participating in an approved exchange program that sponsors your stay in the U.S. In some cases, such as for professors, scholars, or physicians, the sponsoring university or hospital already may have its own approved exchange program. For other cases, such as summer work for university students or au pair positions, there are private programs that have been approved by the U.S. government to sponsor individuals and may help you find a position in the U.S. The amount of time you are allowed to stay in the U.S. depends on the category you fall into. It is important to note, however, that if you spend time in the U.S. on a J visa, you may be required to return home for 2 years before being able to apply for a different type of visa or a green card. In some cases this 2-year home country physical presence requirement can be waived. Your eligibility for the waiver depends upon a variety of different factors, including your country of residence and the type of program you participate in.

Immigration law is often complex in nature with different eligibility and filing requirements. The material on this page and the other pages of this web site is general and for informational purposes only. It is not intended to replace the advice and counsel of an attorney, and you should not rely on it solely when making decisions about your immigration status.

If you would like me to examine your particular situation and assist you in applying for a visa, it is possible to arrange for a consultation by telephone or e-mail.
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