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J-1 Visa — U.S. Exchange Visitor Program for Study, Training & Research
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Quick eligibility check

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1Question 1 of 4 — Do you have an approved U.S. sponsor organization for your J-1 category?
2Question 2 of 4 — Are you applying for study, training, research, or teaching in the U.S.?
3Question 3 of 4 — Do you have sufficient financial resources for your stay?
4Question 4 of 4 — Do you intend to return to your home country after completing the program?

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Typical timeline

6 months

Indicative end-to-end processing; varies by case.

Job offer

Independent

Not required

No employer sponsorship is needed.

Occupation lists

Eligible occupations(5/5)

  • 1Eligible J-1 Categories(5)
    Students and researchersInterns and traineesTeachers and professorsMedical professionals and scholarsCamp counselors and au pairs

Program overview

Overview

Eligibility

  • Must have sponsorship from an approved J-1 program sponsor.
  • Proof of sufficient funds for stay and travel expenses.
  • Evidence of intent to return to home country after program completion.
  • Valid passport and DS-2019 Form issued by the sponsor.
  • Meet category-specific eligibility (academic, professional, or training background).

Key benefits

  • Gain educational, cultural, or professional experience in the U.S.
  • Access diverse exchange categories — study, research, training, and teaching.
  • Develop global exposure and enhance career opportunities.
  • Eligible to bring dependents under J-2 status.
  • Strengthen international collaboration and cross-cultural understanding.
Checklist

Document checklist

10 total items

Documents vary by profile; we’ll tailor your list.

Personal and Identity Documents
3 items
  • Valid passport
  • Passport-size photographs as per USCIS specifications
  • Educational and professional qualification certificates
Program and Sponsor Documents
3 items
  • Form DS-2019 (Certificate of Eligibility for Exchange Visitor Status)
  • Sponsor-issued acceptance or invitation letter
  • Proof of financial support or funding source

Application process

Process

How it works

  1. Step 1: Obtain a Designated Sponsor

    Secure an approved U.S. sponsor organization aligned with your J-1 category (student, intern, researcher, etc.).

    GuidedAvg. 2–4 weeks

  2. Step 2: Submit Application and Documents

    Provide personal information, academic details, and proof of funds to your sponsor.

    GuidedAvg. 2–4 weeks

  3. Step 3: Receive Form DS-2019

    Upon acceptance, your sponsor issues the DS-2019 Certificate of Eligibility for Exchange Visitor Status.

    GuidedAvg. 2–4 weeks

  4. Step 4: Pay SEVIS Fee & Attend Visa Interview

    Pay the SEVIS I-901 fee and attend your visa interview at a U.S. embassy or consulate.

    GuidedAvg. 2–4 weeks

  5. Step 5: Receive Visa & Travel to U.S.

    Upon approval, receive your J-1 visa, travel to the U.S., and begin your exchange program.

    GuidedAvg. 2–4 weeks

  6. Step 6: Program Completion & Return

    After your authorized stay, return to your home country and share your experience as a cultural ambassador.

    GuidedAvg. 2–4 weeks

Who this program is NOT for

  • No approved sponsor organization.
  • Insufficient financial or academic documentation.
  • Failure to demonstrate intent to return home post-program.
  • Non-compliance with program regulations.

Not a match? Explore other programs in United States.

Frequently asked questions

The J-1 visa promotes educational and cultural exchange between the U.S. and other countries through study, training, or professional programs.

Students, teachers, interns, researchers, and professionals sponsored by approved organizations can apply for the J-1 visa.

The duration varies by program type, typically from a few months to several years.

Yes. Your spouse and children under 21 can join under J-2 dependent visas.

The J-1 visa is non-immigrant, but in some cases, you may apply for a waiver or transition to another visa type depending on your circumstances.

Xiphias Immigration helps candidates identify approved sponsors, prepare documentation, and navigate the J-1 application and interview process.

Client testimonials

“Seamless employer-sponsor coordination and PR plan.”
TL
Tech Lead, Toronto
1/2Auto

Why work with us

A private-client approach to second citizenship: transparent costs, rigorous compliance, and execution without friction.

  1. Dedicated due-diligence desk and source-of-funds guidance.
  2. Government-approved project vetting and exit planning.
  3. End-to-end execution: strategy, documentation, submission, oath & passports.
  4. Confidential handling and white-glove concierge for families.
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