It is quite imperative to understand J-1 Visas before examining; who can get J-1 Visas and different programs available. Hence, J-1 visas are non-immigrant visas issued by the US government to exchange visitors taking part in various programs that encourage cultural exchange, particularly to get business or medical schooling in the United States. To qualify for J-1 visa therefore, apart from being sponsored by either a government or private sector program, you must meet the eligibility criteria.
J-1 Visa Program began by getting scholars into the US on short-term basis for an unambiguous educational intention like carrying out research as well teaching. It was later extended to some other Exchange Visitor Programs that have similar intention. Furthermore, J-1 Exchange Visa Program was initiated and administered by the United States Information Agency (USIA) under the Mutual Educational and Cultural Exchange Act – Fulbright-Hays Act of 1966.
Who Can Get J-1 Visas?
There are many eligible applicants that can get J-1 Visas. These categories of people are as highlighted below.
- Trainees who are receiving on-the-job training with firms, agencies and institutions.
- Various students at all scholastic levels.
- Teachers of specialized schools, secondary and primary schools
- Professors or University lecturers coming to do research or teach at institutions of higher learning in the US.
- Research intellectuals
- Specialized trainees who are in the allied and medical fields.
- All international visitors coming for the intention of observation, travel, consultation, training, research, sharing or demonstrating specialized expertise or knowledge, or taking part in organized people-to-people programs.
- The summer camp counselors and au pairs
Different J-1 Visa Programs
The following are the different programs available for J-1 Visas. The Au Pair Program, Government Visitor Program, Intern Program, Trainee Program, Teacher Program, Summer Work Travel Program, International Visitor Program, Physician Program, Professor and Research Scholar Program, Secondary School Student Program, Short-Term Scholar Program and Summer Work Travel Program.
However, for all these different J-1 visa programs above, there are some requirements you must fulfill as an applicant before you can be granted J-1 Visa. For instance, Au Pairs must be secondary school graduate or equivalent, proficient in English and be between 18 and 26 years of age. Therefore, before you apply for any type of program, make sure you are eligible or qualify for such program.