Frequently Asked Questions
How is the J-Visa’s duration determined?
Based on your qualifications if you are an intern it will be for up to 12 months, and if you are a trainee, it will be up to 18 months.
Can interns (trainees) get extensions?
Based on each applicant’s status and situation, extensions are possible. Contact us for details.
Are employers required to provide medical insurance to the J-visa interns?
Interns are required to obtain State Department specified health insurance and prepay medical insurance premiums before applying for J visa. Employers of interns are not required to provide health insurance premiums.
Can J-visa interns legally work in the US?
J-visa is a non-immigrant visa but once the visa recipient arrives in U.S., it allows the recipient to request and obtain a Social Security Number and legally work for the host company they have been authorized to do so.
Are J-visa interns required to pay the social security tax?
No, J-Visa interns and the hosting company providing the training are both exempt from the social security tax and FUTA (Federal Unemployment Tax Act) according to U.S. Treasury regulation section 31.3121(b)(19).
What is the required level of English proficiency for interns and trainees? Is English proficiency tested before intern/trainee applicants receive J-visa?
Based on the new policy published in July of 2007, all interns and trainees are required to have sufficient English skills necessary to perform their training without much communication discomfort. Please contact us for details.
What are the requirements for companies desiring to host international interns and trainees? What documents are required for this process?
We would require basic company information. Please contact us for exact requirement.
Can the immediate family members of the J-1 visa holder accompany him/her to U.S.?
Spouse and children through J-2 visa are allowed to accompany the J-1 visa holder to the U.S. However exchange visitor program candidates are expected to check with us before applying for the position because not all sponsor organizations will provide J-2 visa required DS2019 for immediate family members.
What is the Form DS-2019?
The Form DS-2019 is the “Certificate of Eligibility for Exchange Visitor (J-1) Status”. The Form DS-2019 is a controlled document which only State Department-designated sponsors are authorized to issue to foreign nationals (prospective exchange visitors) they have screened and selected for participation in their State Department-designated exchange visitor program.
What is the Form DS-7002?
The Form DS-7002 is the “Training/Internship Placement Plan” (T/IPP). It is a controlled document which only sponsors designated by the State Department for the “trainee” and “intern” exchange visitor program categories are authorized to issue to foreign nationals they have screened and selected for participation in their designated exchange visitor program.
What is the visa interview like?
At the visa appointment, the consular officer will determine whether the potential exchange visitor qualifies for the visa. Applicants must demonstrate that they properly meet the requirements to be issued an exchange visitor visa, including the following:
- That they plan to remain in the United States for a temporary, specific, limited period;
- Evidence of funds to cover expenses in the United States;
- Evidence of compelling social and economic ties to their home country.
How long can I stay in the U.S. on J-1 visa?
When you enter the U.S. on an exchange visitor visa, you will usually be admitted for the duration of your program. The final decision on how long you may stay in the U.S. is made by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) Inspector at the port of entry/airport.
Can I study on J-1 visa?
Yes, you may study while on J-1 visa. However, you may not join a full length program like an F-1. You may take up a few credits at a University when they do not harm the primary interest of the visa.
Are there any travel restrictions on J-1 visa?
No, there are no travel restrictions on J-1 visa. You may plan with your employer and travel out of the U.S. any number of times while on valid J-1 visa. However you must get an approval from your sponsor organization before travel.
What is the 'Two-Year Rule' on J-1 visa?
The 'Two-Year Rule' is the common term used for a section of immigration law which requires that many exchange visitors return to their home country and be physically present there for at least two years after the conclusion of their exchange visit before they can be issued certain types of nonimmigrant visas, specifically H-1, L-1, K-1 and immigrant visas.
Can the 'Two-Year Rule' be waived?
Yes, you may be able to obtain a J-1 waiver if you are subject to the Two-Year Rule requirement, and thus be eligible to apply for visas normally prohibited for applicants subject to the Two Year Rule.
Waivers of the Two-Year Rule are adjudicated only by the Department of State's Visa Office. This Visa Office is also the final authority on whether an applicant is actually subject to the Rule, regardless of whether it was annotated in your passport or not.
Note: Even if subject to the two year rule, you may still qualify for the issuance of a tourist visa, or any other nonimmigrant visa except for those noted above.
What is the grace period on J-1 visa?
As J-1 exchange visitor, you are permitted to remain in the country up to 30 days past the end date of your Form DS-2019. This time is to allow you time for tourism and packing. You do not have work authorization during this time.
Helpful Links & Resources
U.S. Department of State Information on J-Visa
Official DHS SEVIS Website
Living in U.S.A. Guides and Helpful Tips
Helpful Resources for Koreans in US
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