A J-1 visa is a temporary student visa that allows foreign post-secondary students to study in the US through an approved, government-sponsored exchange program. Students on a J-1 visa may undertake study of a degree until completion, non-degree programs or an internship that will provide credit for a degree course in their home country.
J-1 Visa Entitlement for University Students
A J-1 visa entitles the holder to participate in a University student exchange program in the U.S. A J-1 visa for University students is usually granted for the duration of the degree program or a maximum of 2 years for non-degree programs. A J-1 visa also entitles the holder to engage in part-time employment under certain conditions, including good academic standing at their school, as determined by their sponsor.
Spouses and unmarried children under 21 years of age may apply for the applicable derivative visa (J-2 visa) to join their spouse or parent in the U.S. Accompanying spouses and children are entitled to study in the U-S and may undertake employment with an approved employment authorization.
J-1 Visa Requirements for University Students
To qualify for a J-1 visa as a University student, the applicant must be accepted and sponsored by an organization, usually a University or College, to study a course or undertake an internship at an accredited, post-secondary academic institution in the U.S. To be sponsored, applicants may need to meet additional requirements, as determined by their program sponsor. Applicants are required to demonstrate that they have sufficient funds to support themselves for the duration of their course and that they intend to return to their home country upon completion of their studies. J-1 visa applicants may also be required to meet certain health and character requirements.
