Exchange
Visitors: J-1 Visas
J-1
visa allows foreign students, scholars, expert, medical interns, and
residents, "international visitors," industrial and business trainees
to come to the United States for a limited amount of time for the purpose
of studying, research, or cultural enrichment. Before applying for the
J-1 visa, the alien must be accepted into a program approved by State
Department. The alien and accompanying relatives can file for the J-1
visa at an INS office in the U.S. or at a U.S. consulate in their home
country.
Duration of Stay:
Students: Secondary school students may be admitted for a one
year period. Students in degree programs below the level doctoral level
may also have 18 months of training after completion of the degree program.
Non-degree college and university students are admissible for a two
year period.
Trainees:
Business trainees may be admitted to the United States for an 18 month
period.
Foreign
Medical Graduates: Foreign doctors participating in U.S. internships
and residencies may be admitted for the length of maximum seven years.
Limitations:
A two year foreign residence requirement is imposed on some categories
of exchange aliens once their U.S. stay is completed. Any J-1 visitor
is ineligible for permanent residence or H or L category until he/she
spends two years in the home country or obtain waiver.
