J-1 Exchange Visitor Visa
|
Successfully Obtain Your J-1 Visa:
To discuss your case call: 212-643-0985 or 1-800-673-1120 or This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .
In the right circumstances, the J-1 visa is a great way for an individual to expand his or her skill set while learning about the culture and way of life as an exchange visitor in the United States. Lightman Law Firm understands the importance of successfully obtaining a J-1 Visa and will help you navigate the J-1 Visa process. A successful J-1 visa application, whether it is for a trainee or intern or other program category, requires a careful focus on the rules and legal nuances of the J-1 visa, a well-thought strategy, careful attention to detail, and proper communication. With these elements in place, the process is often easier and less stressful than many clients expect. We use our vast experience to walk clients through the J-1 Visa process step-by-step. We listen. We address your concerns. We help you gather the required information and documentation. And then we carefully prepare your J-1 Visa application. We communicate with all parties throughout the process to ensure a successful outcome in an efficient manner. In short, our J-1 visa attorney experience benefits you in several key areas. We:
Your success is our success. At Lightman Law, that's not just lip service. You'll know it from the first communication through the completion of your case.
Questions? Concerns? We can help. We'll explain the visa J-1 process and time frame, and outline exactly what to prepare... and expect. There's no obligation. Contact us: * 212-643-0985
What is a J-1 Visa? The J-1 Visa is a nonimmigrant visa granted to participants in the US Department of State’s Exchange Visitor Program, which is administered by the Office of Private Sector Programs at the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA). The purpose of the visa is to increase mutual understanding between the people of the United States and the people of other countries by means of educational and cultural exchanges.
The J-1 Exchange Visitor Visa is comprised of categories for various types of programs, such as the following: internships, traineeships, au pairs, visiting teachers, scholars and physicians, students, and summer work/travel and camp counselor programs for foreign university students. Each category of exchange has its own specific requirements and program duration. Regardless of the category, or the duration of the exchange experience, all J-1 visas are nonimmigrant visas, and participants of the programs are to return to their native countries upon completion.
Do I qualify for a J-1 Visa? Although the best way to answer this question is via an evaluation with an attorney, there are some general requirements that must be met. Since the most common cateogories are for interns and trainees, we will expand on the requirements for these categories in more detail.
If you are applying in the J-1 trainee program, you must have a degree from a foreign, post-secondary accredited academic institution and one year or more of foreign professional work experience related to the proposed training. If you do not hold a degree then you must have five or more years of foreign professional work experience related to the proposed training. In addition, all trainees must possess advanced spoken and written English language proficiency. If you are applying in the J-1 Intern program, you must be a currently enrolled student pursuing a degree at a foreign postsecondary accredited academic institution, or a recent graduate (you cannot have graduated more than 12 months prior to program start date) from such an institution. Your degree must be in an academic field related to the proposed internship. In addition, all interns must possess advanced spoken and written English language proficiency. What are the acceptable occupational categories for J-1 visas as an intern or trainee? Common occupational categories for J-1 trainee and intern visas are as follows:
How long can a J-1 program last? Training programs have a maximum duration of 18 months and intern programs have a maximum duration of 12 months. The J-1 duration for other programs vary. For example, short term scholars are given 6 months and post-doctoral students are given the time it takes to complete their degree plus up to 36 months. The J program's duration depends on the program category and the J program sponsor. In some instances, an extension may be possible. When my J status expires, do I have a grace period to legally stay in the US? Yes, you have a 30 day grace period to legally stay in the US. It is essential to confirm the dates of your grace period with your legal representative, host company, and/or program sponsor.
What is Section 212(e) and the two-year Foreign Residency Requirement for J visa holders all about? Some J-1 holders may be subject to the Two Year Foreign Residency Requirement, or section 212(e) of the Immigration and Nationality Act, and cannot change status or apply for permanent residency until they have returned to their home country for at least two years or received a waiver of that requirement. Participants are subject to INA 212(e) if the following conditions exist:
Is there a minimum or maximum age requirement for the J-1 visa? Usually there is a minimum age requirement of 18 years of age and no maximum age requirement. Where do I apply for a J-1 Visa after being accepted in an Exchange Visitor Program? You will apply for a J-1 visa at U.S. Consulate office located abroad after you have been accepted in an Exchange Visitor Program. Is an interview required for the visa process abroad? Yes. Applicants between the ages of 14 and 79 are required to complete an interview at the consular embassy section. Canadian citizens are exempt from the visa stamping and consular interview process. What type of information and documents do you need from me and the sponsoring organization to prepare the J-1 Visa application? A wide variety of info is needed for a successful J-1 visa application. As each case is different the infor and documents will also generally be different, but generally speaking the following are usually required:
What if I don’t live in New York City? Don’t live in New York City? No problem! We take great pride in offering the same stellar level of service to individuals whether they are located across the street, across the country, or across the globe. Whether we meet in person, over the phone, or using the internet, our strong communication will be an asset to your case. Contact us to discuss your case: * 212-643-0985
Call 212-643-0985 or email
This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it
. |
LegalServices
Why Lightman Law Firm?
- Honest & Professional
- Affordable Flat Fees
- Open Communication
- Attention to Detail
- Quick Processing
- Experienced Representation
- We Care About Our Clients!
Did you know?
Douglas M. Lightman, the principal and founding lawyer of Lightman Law Firm, is a proud member of the Bar of the State of New York and the American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA).
In addition, Mr. Lightman, has been listed as an immigration lawyer on the websites of both the British Consulate General at New York and the Consulate General of Canada in New York.
For more information about the firm and Mr. Lightman, please see: ABOUT US.
Contact Us
Quick Contact
Client Feedback