J-1 Visa Working Hours: The Full-Time Requirement

How Many Hours Does a J-1 Intern Work?

J-1 internships and traineeships are full-time programs of at least 32 hours a week.

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Full-time Means 32 Hours

Full-time participation, with a minimum of 32 hours a week, is required for training and internship programs.

Source: 22 CFR § 62.22: Trainees and interns

Learning First

Programs must keep learning and your contribution in balance through structured activities such as on-the-job training, seminars, rotations and conferences. They may not displace American workers or fill a labor need.

Source: 22 CFR § 62.22: Trainees and interns

FAQs

Can a J-1 internship be part-time?

No. Training and internship programs have to be full-time, at least 32 hours a week.

Source: 22 CFR § 62.22: Trainees and interns

The Bottom Line

Plan for a full-time week of at least 32 hours, built around learning rather than filling a job.

Related Terms

• 
  J-1 InternA US exchange visitor category that lets students and recent graduates train at a US company for up to 12 months.
  more
• 
  Program ExclusionsThe kinds of positions and duties that J-1 internships and traineeships are not allowed to include.
  more
• 
  EvaluationsThe written reviews of your progress that every J-1 internship and traineeship includes.
  more
• 
  DS-7002The Training/Internship Placement Plan. You, your host company and your sponsor all sign it.
  more
• 
  Host CompanyThe US organization where a J-1 intern or trainee does the training program.
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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.
  more

Sources

1. 22 CFR § 62.22: Trainees and interns