Overview
The J-1 visa supports a wide range of exchange visitor programs designed to promote cultural and educational exchange, including students, scholars, research professors, physicians, interns, trainees, teachers, camp counselors, and au pairs.
Important considerations
Each J-1 program has its own rules and sponsor requirements. A key issue for many participants is the two-year home-country physical presence requirement (under section 212(e)), which can require certain exchange visitors to return home for two years before becoming eligible for certain other visas or permanent residence — unless a waiver is obtained.
How Do Law can help
We advise on selecting and complying with the right J-1 program, evaluate whether the two-year requirement applies, and pursue waivers where appropriate so that participants can plan their longer-term goals in the United States.