Student visa · Ireland to United States of America

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

  • 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.

    Includes
    • Exchange programs: work-study
    • research
    • teaching
    • training
    • au pair
  • Financial

    Must have sufficient funds to cover expenses during exchange program period as outlined by sponsor.

    Minimum funds: Varies by program

Documents you need

  • Passport

    Blank pages required: 1; Validity months: 6

  • Photo

    Count: 1; Specifications: 2x2 inches (51x51mm), color, white background, taken within 6 months. Digital: 600-1200 pixels square, JPEG, under 240KB.

  • Proof of funds

    Accepted forms: Bank statements, sponsor funding letter, personal funds; Minimum amount: Sufficient for program duration as specified by sponsor

  • 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/

  • Sponsorship certificate

    Certificate name: DS-2019 Certificate of Eligibility for Exchange Visitor Status; Sponsor type: State Department-designated exchange program sponsor

  • Return obligation

    Obligation period years: 2; Waiver available: Yes

  • 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

  1. 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.

  2. Fee payment

    Pay SEVIS I-901 fee of $220 online (fee waived for US government-sponsored programs with specific serial numbers).

  3. Online application

    Complete DS-160 online visa application. Print confirmation page.

  4. Interview

    Attend visa interview with DS-2019, DS-7002 (if applicable), financial documents, and program details.

  5. Processing wait

    Processing typically 3-5 weeks.

  6. Visa collection

    Collect passport with visa if approved.

Sign in to apply
This information is general guidance only and can change frequently. Always verify with the official embassy or consulate before making travel plans. Contact [email protected] for help.

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