General Information: The United States government issues J-1 visas to individuals who take part in a wide variety of exchange visitor programs sponsored by schools, businesses, and a variety of organizations and institutions. These programs are envisioned for business and industrial trainees, scholars, students, international visitors, teachers, research assistants and those on cultural missions.

In addition, there are several exchange visitor programs for young individuals, including summer employment programs, internship programs for university students, and au-pair programs.

Eligibility Requirements: You meet the criteria for a J-1 exchange visitor visa if you are coming to the United States as a student, scholar, trainee, teacher, professor, research assistant, medical graduate or international visitor who is participating in a program of studies, training research or cultural enrichment specifically designed for such individuals by the United States Department of State, through its Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs.