Visa Categories: J-1 Terms Explained

Intern, trainee, scholar and J-2: who can come to the US and how long they can stay.

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  B-1/B-2 VisaA B-1/B-2 visa is for temporary business visits and tourism, not employment or participation in a J-1 exchange program.
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  F-1 vs. J-1 VisaF-1 is for academic study, with authorized practical training options; J-1 Visa is for exchange programs through a designated sponsor.
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  Hospitality & TourismA J-1 intern and trainee field with a 12-⁠month limit and at least three departmental or functional rotations for programs of six months or longer.
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  J-1 InternA US exchange visitor category that lets students and recent graduates train at a US company for up to 12 months.
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  J-1 ProfessorA J-1 category for academics who come to teach or lecture at a US institution, for up to five years.
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  J-1 Research ScholarA J-1 category for researchers who come to a US university, research institute, museum or library to do research, for up to five years.
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  J-1 Short-Term ScholarA J-1 category for short academic visits to lecture, observe, consult or take part in conferences and workshops, for up to six months.
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  J-1 SpecialistA J-1 category for experts who come to the US to observe, consult or demonstrate special knowledge or skills, for up to one year.
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  J-1 TraineeA US exchange visitor category for people with a degree and work experience abroad, with training at a US company for up to 18 months.
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  J-1 VisaThe US visa for exchange programs. You train, teach or do research for a set time, through a sponsor designated by the US Department of State.
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  J-2 VisaThe visa for the spouse and unmarried children under 21 of a J-1 participant who come along or join later.
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  Occupational CategoriesThe ten fields in which J-1 intern and trainee programs can take place. A sponsor may only run programs in the categories it is designated for.
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  Q-1 VisaQ-1 is for an approved international cultural exchange combining practical training or employment with sharing your country's culture.

Other Topics

ApplicationSponsor, documents, English, insurance, timing and the visa interview.11 termsForms & FeesDS-2019, DS-7002, SEVIS and what a J-1 program costs.6 termsDuring the ProgramWorking hours, evaluations, travel, extensions and transfers.19 termsAfter the ProgramThe grace period, the two-year rule and the 24-month bar.7 termsHost CompaniesHosting interns and trainees: who qualifies, checks and site visits.4 terms