J-1 Exchange Visitor Visa
Embassy required
- Processing time
- Varies by embassy, typically 3-5 weeks
- Fee
- $535 USD
- Validity
- Duration of exchange program as specified on DS-2019
- Entry
- Multiple entry
Eligibility
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Purpose of visit
Must participate in approved exchange visitor program sponsored by State Department-designated organization. Programs include educational, cultural exchange activities such as teaching, research, training, au pair work.
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Financial
Must have sufficient funds to cover expenses during exchange program period as outlined by sponsor.
Minimum funds: Varies by program
Documents you need
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Passport
Blank pages required: 1; Validity months: 6
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Photo
Count: 1; Specifications: 2x2 inches (51x51mm), color, white background, taken within 6 months. Digital: 600-1200 pixels square, JPEG, under 240KB.
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Proof of funds
Accepted forms: Bank statements, sponsor funding letter, personal funds; Minimum amount: Sufficient for program duration as specified by sponsor
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Application form
Use the official application form for this route and complete all required fields.
Form name: DS-160 Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application; Form url: https://ceac.state.gov/genniv/
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Sponsorship certificate
Certificate name: DS-2019 Certificate of Eligibility for Exchange Visitor Status; Sponsor type: State Department-designated exchange program sponsor
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Return obligation
Obligation period years: 2; Waiver available: Yes
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Program registration fee
Fee amount: $220 USD; Payment url: https://www.fmjfee.com/; Registration system: SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System)
How to apply
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Document gathering
Apply and be accepted into exchange visitor program through pre-approved sponsor organization. Receive DS-2019 form after sponsor registers you in SEVIS. Trainee/Intern categories also require DS-7002 form.
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Fee payment
Pay SEVIS I-901 fee of $220 online (fee waived for US government-sponsored programs with specific serial numbers).
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Online application
Complete DS-160 online visa application. Print confirmation page.
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Interview
Attend visa interview with DS-2019, DS-7002 (if applicable), financial documents, and program details.
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Processing wait
Processing typically 3-5 weeks.
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Visa collection
Collect passport with visa if approved.