Obtaining a J-1 Visa

The J-1 visa is used for non-immigrants wanting to come to the United States for educational or training purposes.

Participants include:

Students at all academic levels
Employees obtaining on-the-job training with firms, institutions and agencies
Teachers at primary, secondary and specialized schools
Professors coming to teach or research at institutions of higher learning
Research scholars
Professional trainees in the medical and allied fields
International visitors coming to travel, observe, consult, research, train, share or demonstrate specialized knowledge or skills or to participate in organized people-to-people programs.

What do I have to do to obtain a J-1 visa?

Applicants for a J-1 visa must prove that they have the financial resources to cover all expenses or that they'll receive a scholarship or stipend. They must also demonstrate sufficient knowledge of the English language by passing an exam such as the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL). Applicants participating in exchange programs designed for to accommodate non-English speaking participants are exempt from that requirement.

Along with proof a financial resources and English proficiency, J-1 visa applicants must:

File a Form IAP-66 prepared by the sponsoring organization.

Show that the visit to the U.S. is temporary and that they have a residence in their home country to which they intend to return. They should do so at the U.S. embassy or consulate with jurisdiction over their country of permanent residence.

File a Form OF-156 (available through all U.S. consular offices), completed and signed.

Possess a passport valid for travel to the United States stamped with a validity date at least six months beyond the applicant's intended period of stay in the United States. If more than one person is included in the passport, each applicant must apply separately.

Supply one photograph 1 and 1/2 inches square (37x37mm), showing full face, without head covering, against a light background.

Can I have a job while I'm in the United States with a J-1 visa?

Employment while under J-1 exchange visitor status depends on the terms of the program. Participants in programs that provide on-the-job training, teaching, research or other activities which involve paid employment may accept such employment. Participants in programs that do not involve work may not accept outside employment.

If I'm applying for a J-1 visa, for what visa should my spouse apply?

The spouse and minor children of participants in J-1 exchange programs can apply for derivative J-2 visas to accompany or follow the principal alien by presenting a copy of the principal's Form IAP-66. They must also demonstrate they will have sufficient financial resources to cover all expenses while in the U.S. Dependents, unlike some J-1 visa holders, can apply for authorization for employment in the U.S.

Durrani Law Firm is available to help those wishing to apply for a J visa through the process with a consultation. Contact us by email at info@durrani.com or by phone at 1-866-DURRANI.