Non-Immigrant Visas

J Visas: Exchange Visitor Visas

The exchange visitor program is designed to promote the interchange of persons, knowledge, and skills in the fields of education, arts, and sciences.  Interested applicants must apply directly to the school or organization.  Once an applicant is accepted into a program, they are issued a DS-2019 form which they must bring to the Embassy at the time of their interview.

SEVIS fee

Persons applying for a J visa must pay a SEVIS fee.  This fee covers the cost of administering the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS).  This fee must be paid before the person applies for a visa.  Derivative applicants do not have to pay a SEVIS fee.  For further details and information on how to pay the fee, please visit www.fmjfee.com

Initial Entry into the US

Please be aware that United States Department of Homeland Security regulations state that holders of exchange visitor (J1) non-immigrant visas will only be admitted to the United States thirty days or less before their program start date, as given on form DS-2019.

Foreign Residency Requirement

Certain exchange visitors are subject to the 'two-year rule.'  After completing their program in the United States, they must return to their country of nationality or last residence, and reside there physically for two years before applying for a U.S. immigrant or temporary worker visa.

For more information on exchange program visas, click here.