J-1 Visa for Trainees/Interns

√ J-1 Visa (must meet program requirements, such as relevant degree, benefit to future employment abroad).

√ For internship, must be enrolled in university abroad or have graduated from university abroad no more than twelve months before starting internship.

√ For traineeship, must have graduate degree from university abroad plus one year of related professional experience or five years of related work experience abroad.

√ Must show ties to home country and intent to return home

√ US companies can have their own J-1 program or can sponsor candidates through umbrella J-1 program and will submit a Form DS-2019, Certificate of Eligibility for Exchange Visitor Status to a sponsoring agency.

√ After Form DS-2019 has been obtained, you may then apply for a J-1 visa through the U.S. Department of State at a U.S. embassy or consulate.

√ Spouses and unmarried children under the age of 21 can join the J-1 nonimmigrant.

√ Dependents will be granted the same period of stay as the J-1 nonimmigrant.

√ Spouses and children may work, but their income cannot support the J-1 nonimmigrant.