CINXE.COM

<!doctype html>      <html lang="en" class="no-js">  <head> <title>Common Questions - BridgeUSAJ-1 Visa Basics | BridgeUSA</title> <meta charset="utf-8" /> <meta http-equiv="imagetoolbar" content="no" /> <meta name="description" content="" /> <meta name="keywords" content="" /> <meta name="author" content="Department of State" /> <meta name="google-site-verification" content="LIgVH5qs7n2JA043Tl4WCo8FSMhY1yc4xDP-GXwJYS0" /> <link rel="shortcut icon" href="/wp-content/themes/j1visa/images/icons/favicon.ico" /> <link rel="image_src" href="/wp-content/themes/j1visa/images/icons/icon-fb-badge.jpg" /> <link rel="apple-touch-icon" href="/wp-content/themes/j1visa/images/icons/icon-apple-touch.png" /> <link rel="stylesheet" type="text/css" media="all" href="/wp-content/themes/j1visa/style.css" /> <link rel="stylesheet" type="text/css" media="print" href="/wp-content/themes/j1visa/print.css" /> <script src="/wp-content/themes/j1visa/js/libs/modernizr-1.7.min.js"></script>  <script async type="text/javascript" src="https://dap.digitalgov.gov/Universal-Federated-Analytics-Min.js?agency=DOS&subagency=ECA&siteplatform=BridgeUSA" id="_fed_an_ua_tag"></script> <script type="text/javascript"> //Add Vanity Hyperlinks Ticket 5800 var MainUrl=location.href.toLowerCase(); if (MainUrl=="/sponsor-search"){ window.location.href="/participants/how-to-apply/sponsor-search/"; }else if (MainUrl=="/sponsor-by-country"){ window.location.href="/sponsors/sponsor-by-country/"; }else if (MainUrl=="https://" + window.location.hostname + "/program-category-requirements.pdf"){ window.location.href="/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/Exchange-Visitor-Program-Category-Requirements.pdf"; }else{ } </script> <script type="text/javascript"> setTimeout(function(){var a=document.createElement("script"); var b=document.getElementsByTagName("script")[0]; a.src=document.location.protocol+"//script.crazyegg.com/pages/scripts/0041/8523.js?"+Math.floor(new Date().getTime()/3600000); a.async=true;a.type="text/javascript";b.parentNode.insertBefore(a,b)}, 1); </script> <meta name='robots' content='index, follow, max-image-preview:large, max-snippet:-1, max-video-preview:-1' />  <link rel="canonical" href="https://j1visa.state.gov/basics/common-questions/" /> <meta property="og:locale" content="en_US" /> <meta property="og:type" content="article" /> <meta property="og:title" content="Common Questions - BridgeUSA" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://j1visa.state.gov/basics/common-questions/" /> <meta property="og:site_name" content="BridgeUSA" /> <meta property="article:modified_time" content="2011-04-13T19:11:47+00:00" /> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image" /> <script type="application/ld+json" class="yoast-schema-graph">{"@context":"https://schema.org","@graph":[{"@type":"WebSite","@id":"https://j1visa.state.gov/#website","url":"https://j1visa.state.gov/","name":"BridgeUSA","description":"Exchange Visitor Program","potentialAction":[{"@type":"SearchAction","target":{"@type":"EntryPoint","urlTemplate":"https://j1visa.state.gov/?s={search_term_string}"},"query-input":"required name=search_term_string"}],"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"WebPage","@id":"https://j1visa.state.gov/basics/common-questions/#webpage","url":"https://j1visa.state.gov/basics/common-questions/","name":"Common Questions - BridgeUSA","isPartOf":{"@id":"https://j1visa.state.gov/#website"},"datePublished":"2011-03-21T20:28:37+00:00","dateModified":"2011-04-13T19:11:47+00:00","breadcrumb":{"@id":"https://j1visa.state.gov/basics/common-questions/#breadcrumb"},"inLanguage":"en-US","potentialAction":[{"@type":"ReadAction","target":["https://j1visa.state.gov/basics/common-questions/"]}]},{"@type":"BreadcrumbList","@id":"https://j1visa.state.gov/basics/common-questions/#breadcrumb","itemListElement":[{"@type":"ListItem","position":1,"name":"J-1 Visa Basics","item":"https://j1visa.state.gov/basics/"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":2,"name":"Common Questions"}]}]}</script>  <link rel='dns-prefetch' href='//fonts.googleapis.com' /> <link rel='dns-prefetch' href='//s.w.org' /> <script type="text/javascript"> window._wpemojiSettings = {"baseUrl":"https:\/\/s.w.org\/images\/core\/emoji\/13.1.0\/72x72\/","ext":".png","svgUrl":"https:\/\/s.w.org\/images\/core\/emoji\/13.1.0\/svg\/","svgExt":".svg","source":{"concatemoji":"https:\/\/j1visa.state.gov\/wp-includes\/js\/wp-emoji-release.min.js?ver=c966c5a9217e4ff3e3c74c531ba573c4"}}; /*! This file is auto-generated */ !function(e,a,t){var n,r,o,i=a.createElement("canvas"),p=i.getContext&&i.getContext("2d");function s(e,t){var a=String.fromCharCode;p.clearRect(0,0,i.width,i.height),p.fillText(a.apply(this,e),0,0);e=i.toDataURL();return p.clearRect(0,0,i.width,i.height),p.fillText(a.apply(this,t),0,0),e===i.toDataURL()}function c(e){var t=a.createElement("script");t.src=e,t.defer=t.type="text/javascript",a.getElementsByTagName("head")[0].appendChild(t)}for(o=Array("flag","emoji"),t.supports={everything:!0,everythingExceptFlag:!0},r=0;r<o.length;r++)t.supports[o[r]]=function(e){if(!p||!p.fillText)return!1;switch(p.textBaseline="top",p.font="600 32px Arial",e){case"flag":return s([127987,65039,8205,9895,65039],[127987,65039,8203,9895,65039])?!1:!s([55356,56826,55356,56819],[55356,56826,8203,55356,56819])&&!s([55356,57332,56128,56423,56128,56418,56128,56421,56128,56430,56128,56423,56128,56447],[55356,57332,8203,56128,56423,8203,56128,56418,8203,56128,56421,8203,56128,56430,8203,56128,56423,8203,56128,56447]);case"emoji":return!s([10084,65039,8205,55357,56613],[10084,65039,8203,55357,56613])}return!1}(o[r]),t.supports.everything=t.supports.everything&&t.supports[o[r]],"flag"!==o[r]&&(t.supports.everythingExceptFlag=t.supports.everythingExceptFlag&&t.supports[o[r]]);t.supports.everythingExceptFlag=t.supports.everythingExceptFlag&&!t.supports.flag,t.DOMReady=!1,t.readyCallback=function(){t.DOMReady=!0},t.supports.everything||(n=function(){t.readyCallback()},a.addEventListener?(a.addEventListener("DOMContentLoaded",n,!1),e.addEventListener("load",n,!1)):(e.attachEvent("onload",n),a.attachEvent("onreadystatechange",function(){"complete"===a.readyState&&t.readyCallback()})),(n=t.source||{}).concatemoji?c(n.concatemoji):n.wpemoji&&n.twemoji&&(c(n.twemoji),c(n.wpemoji)))}(window,document,window._wpemojiSettings); </script> <style type="text/css"> img.wp-smiley, img.emoji { display: inline !important; border: none !important; box-shadow: none !important; height: 1em !important; width: 1em !important; margin: 0 0.07em !important; vertical-align: -0.1em !important; background: none !important; padding: 0 !important; } </style> <link rel='stylesheet' id='wp-block-library-css' href='https://j1visa.state.gov/wp-includes/css/dist/block-library/style.min.css?ver=c966c5a9217e4ff3e3c74c531ba573c4' type='text/css' media='all' /> <style id='global-styles-inline-css' type='text/css'> body{--wp--preset--color--black: #000000;--wp--preset--color--cyan-bluish-gray: #abb8c3;--wp--preset--color--white: #ffffff;--wp--preset--color--pale-pink: #f78da7;--wp--preset--color--vivid-red: #cf2e2e;--wp--preset--color--luminous-vivid-orange: #ff6900;--wp--preset--color--luminous-vivid-amber: #fcb900;--wp--preset--color--light-green-cyan: #7bdcb5;--wp--preset--color--vivid-green-cyan: #00d084;--wp--preset--color--pale-cyan-blue: #8ed1fc;--wp--preset--color--vivid-cyan-blue: #0693e3;--wp--preset--color--vivid-purple: #9b51e0;--wp--preset--gradient--vivid-cyan-blue-to-vivid-purple: linear-gradient(135deg,rgba(6,147,227,1) 0%,rgb(155,81,224) 100%);--wp--preset--gradient--light-green-cyan-to-vivid-green-cyan: linear-gradient(135deg,rgb(122,220,180) 0%,rgb(0,208,130) 100%);--wp--preset--gradient--luminous-vivid-amber-to-luminous-vivid-orange: linear-gradient(135deg,rgba(252,185,0,1) 0%,rgba(255,105,0,1) 100%);--wp--preset--gradient--luminous-vivid-orange-to-vivid-red: linear-gradient(135deg,rgba(255,105,0,1) 0%,rgb(207,46,46) 100%);--wp--preset--gradient--very-light-gray-to-cyan-bluish-gray: linear-gradient(135deg,rgb(238,238,238) 0%,rgb(169,184,195) 100%);--wp--preset--gradient--cool-to-warm-spectrum: linear-gradient(135deg,rgb(74,234,220) 0%,rgb(151,120,209) 20%,rgb(207,42,186) 40%,rgb(238,44,130) 60%,rgb(251,105,98) 80%,rgb(254,248,76) 100%);--wp--preset--gradient--blush-light-purple: linear-gradient(135deg,rgb(255,206,236) 0%,rgb(152,150,240) 100%);--wp--preset--gradient--blush-bordeaux: linear-gradient(135deg,rgb(254,205,165) 0%,rgb(254,45,45) 50%,rgb(107,0,62) 100%);--wp--preset--gradient--luminous-dusk: linear-gradient(135deg,rgb(255,203,112) 0%,rgb(199,81,192) 50%,rgb(65,88,208) 100%);--wp--preset--gradient--pale-ocean: linear-gradient(135deg,rgb(255,245,203) 0%,rgb(182,227,212) 50%,rgb(51,167,181) 100%);--wp--preset--gradient--electric-grass: linear-gradient(135deg,rgb(202,248,128) 0%,rgb(113,206,126) 100%);--wp--preset--gradient--midnight: linear-gradient(135deg,rgb(2,3,129) 0%,rgb(40,116,252) 100%);--wp--preset--duotone--dark-grayscale: url('#wp-duotone-dark-grayscale');--wp--preset--duotone--grayscale: url('#wp-duotone-grayscale');--wp--preset--duotone--purple-yellow: url('#wp-duotone-purple-yellow');--wp--preset--duotone--blue-red: url('#wp-duotone-blue-red');--wp--preset--duotone--midnight: url('#wp-duotone-midnight');--wp--preset--duotone--magenta-yellow: url('#wp-duotone-magenta-yellow');--wp--preset--duotone--purple-green: url('#wp-duotone-purple-green');--wp--preset--duotone--blue-orange: url('#wp-duotone-blue-orange');--wp--preset--font-size--small: 13px;--wp--preset--font-size--medium: 20px;--wp--preset--font-size--large: 36px;--wp--preset--font-size--x-large: 42px;}.has-black-color{color: var(--wp--preset--color--black) !important;}.has-cyan-bluish-gray-color{color: var(--wp--preset--color--cyan-bluish-gray) !important;}.has-white-color{color: var(--wp--preset--color--white) !important;}.has-pale-pink-color{color: var(--wp--preset--color--pale-pink) !important;}.has-vivid-red-color{color: var(--wp--preset--color--vivid-red) !important;}.has-luminous-vivid-orange-color{color: var(--wp--preset--color--luminous-vivid-orange) !important;}.has-luminous-vivid-amber-color{color: var(--wp--preset--color--luminous-vivid-amber) !important;}.has-light-green-cyan-color{color: var(--wp--preset--color--light-green-cyan) !important;}.has-vivid-green-cyan-color{color: var(--wp--preset--color--vivid-green-cyan) !important;}.has-pale-cyan-blue-color{color: var(--wp--preset--color--pale-cyan-blue) !important;}.has-vivid-cyan-blue-color{color: var(--wp--preset--color--vivid-cyan-blue) !important;}.has-vivid-purple-color{color: var(--wp--preset--color--vivid-purple) !important;}.has-black-background-color{background-color: var(--wp--preset--color--black) !important;}.has-cyan-bluish-gray-background-color{background-color: var(--wp--preset--color--cyan-bluish-gray) !important;}.has-white-background-color{background-color: var(--wp--preset--color--white) !important;}.has-pale-pink-background-color{background-color: var(--wp--preset--color--pale-pink) !important;}.has-vivid-red-background-color{background-color: var(--wp--preset--color--vivid-red) !important;}.has-luminous-vivid-orange-background-color{background-color: var(--wp--preset--color--luminous-vivid-orange) !important;}.has-luminous-vivid-amber-background-color{background-color: var(--wp--preset--color--luminous-vivid-amber) !important;}.has-light-green-cyan-background-color{background-color: var(--wp--preset--color--light-green-cyan) !important;}.has-vivid-green-cyan-background-color{background-color: var(--wp--preset--color--vivid-green-cyan) !important;}.has-pale-cyan-blue-background-color{background-color: var(--wp--preset--color--pale-cyan-blue) !important;}.has-vivid-cyan-blue-background-color{background-color: var(--wp--preset--color--vivid-cyan-blue) !important;}.has-vivid-purple-background-color{background-color: var(--wp--preset--color--vivid-purple) !important;}.has-black-border-color{border-color: var(--wp--preset--color--black) !important;}.has-cyan-bluish-gray-border-color{border-color: var(--wp--preset--color--cyan-bluish-gray) !important;}.has-white-border-color{border-color: var(--wp--preset--color--white) !important;}.has-pale-pink-border-color{border-color: var(--wp--preset--color--pale-pink) !important;}.has-vivid-red-border-color{border-color: var(--wp--preset--color--vivid-red) !important;}.has-luminous-vivid-orange-border-color{border-color: var(--wp--preset--color--luminous-vivid-orange) !important;}.has-luminous-vivid-amber-border-color{border-color: var(--wp--preset--color--luminous-vivid-amber) !important;}.has-light-green-cyan-border-color{border-color: var(--wp--preset--color--light-green-cyan) !important;}.has-vivid-green-cyan-border-color{border-color: var(--wp--preset--color--vivid-green-cyan) !important;}.has-pale-cyan-blue-border-color{border-color: var(--wp--preset--color--pale-cyan-blue) !important;}.has-vivid-cyan-blue-border-color{border-color: var(--wp--preset--color--vivid-cyan-blue) !important;}.has-vivid-purple-border-color{border-color: var(--wp--preset--color--vivid-purple) !important;}.has-vivid-cyan-blue-to-vivid-purple-gradient-background{background: var(--wp--preset--gradient--vivid-cyan-blue-to-vivid-purple) !important;}.has-light-green-cyan-to-vivid-green-cyan-gradient-background{background: var(--wp--preset--gradient--light-green-cyan-to-vivid-green-cyan) !important;}.has-luminous-vivid-amber-to-luminous-vivid-orange-gradient-background{background: var(--wp--preset--gradient--luminous-vivid-amber-to-luminous-vivid-orange) !important;}.has-luminous-vivid-orange-to-vivid-red-gradient-background{background: var(--wp--preset--gradient--luminous-vivid-orange-to-vivid-red) !important;}.has-very-light-gray-to-cyan-bluish-gray-gradient-background{background: var(--wp--preset--gradient--very-light-gray-to-cyan-bluish-gray) !important;}.has-cool-to-warm-spectrum-gradient-background{background: var(--wp--preset--gradient--cool-to-warm-spectrum) !important;}.has-blush-light-purple-gradient-background{background: var(--wp--preset--gradient--blush-light-purple) !important;}.has-blush-bordeaux-gradient-background{background: var(--wp--preset--gradient--blush-bordeaux) !important;}.has-luminous-dusk-gradient-background{background: var(--wp--preset--gradient--luminous-dusk) !important;}.has-pale-ocean-gradient-background{background: var(--wp--preset--gradient--pale-ocean) !important;}.has-electric-grass-gradient-background{background: var(--wp--preset--gradient--electric-grass) !important;}.has-midnight-gradient-background{background: var(--wp--preset--gradient--midnight) !important;}.has-small-font-size{font-size: var(--wp--preset--font-size--small) !important;}.has-medium-font-size{font-size: var(--wp--preset--font-size--medium) !important;}.has-large-font-size{font-size: var(--wp--preset--font-size--large) !important;}.has-x-large-font-size{font-size: var(--wp--preset--font-size--x-large) !important;} </style> <link rel='stylesheet' id='simple-social-share-main-css' href='https://j1visa.state.gov/wp-content/plugins/simple-social-share/css/style.css?ver=c966c5a9217e4ff3e3c74c531ba573c4' type='text/css' media='all' /> <link rel='stylesheet' id='dashicons-css' href='https://j1visa.state.gov/wp-includes/css/dashicons.min.css?ver=c966c5a9217e4ff3e3c74c531ba573c4' type='text/css' media='all' /> <link rel='stylesheet' id='wpmm_fontawesome_css-css' href='https://j1visa.state.gov/wp-content/plugins/wp-megamenu/assets/font-awesome-4.7.0/css/font-awesome.min.css?ver=4.7.0' type='text/css' media='all' /> <link rel='stylesheet' id='wpmm_icofont_css-css' href='https://j1visa.state.gov/wp-content/plugins/wp-megamenu/assets/icofont/icofont.min.css?ver=1.0.1' type='text/css' media='all' /> <link rel='stylesheet' id='wpmm_css-css' href='https://j1visa.state.gov/wp-content/plugins/wp-megamenu/assets/css/wpmm.css?ver=1.4.2' type='text/css' media='all' /> <link rel='stylesheet' id='wp_megamenu_generated_css-css' href='https://j1visa.state.gov/wp-content/uploads/wp-megamenu/wp-megamenu.css?ver=1.4.2' type='text/css' media='all' /> <link rel='stylesheet' id='featuresbox_css-css' href='https://j1visa.state.gov/wp-content/plugins/wp-megamenu/addons/wpmm-featuresbox/wpmm-featuresbox.css?ver=1' type='text/css' media='all' /> <link rel='stylesheet' id='postgrid_css-css' href='https://j1visa.state.gov/wp-content/plugins/wp-megamenu/addons/wpmm-gridpost/wpmm-gridpost.css?ver=1' type='text/css' media='all' /> <link rel='stylesheet' id='poppins-css' href='//fonts.googleapis.com/css?family=Poppins%3A100%2C100italic%2C200%2C200italic%2C300%2C300italic%2Cregular%2Citalic%2C500%2C500italic%2C600%2C600italic%2C700%2C700italic%2C800%2C800italic%2C900%2C900italic&ver=1.4.2' type='text/css' media='all' /> <link rel='stylesheet' id='open-sans-css' href='https://fonts.googleapis.com/css?family=Open+Sans%3A300italic%2C400italic%2C600italic%2C300%2C400%2C600&subset=latin%2Clatin-ext&display=fallback&ver=c966c5a9217e4ff3e3c74c531ba573c4' type='text/css' media='all' /> <script type='text/javascript' src='https://j1visa.state.gov/wp-includes/js/jquery/jquery.min.js?ver=3.6.0' id='jquery-core-js'></script> <script type='text/javascript' src='https://j1visa.state.gov/wp-includes/js/jquery/jquery-migrate.min.js?ver=3.3.2' id='jquery-migrate-js'></script> <script type='text/javascript' src='https://j1visa.state.gov/wp-content/plugins/wp-megamenu/addons/wpmm-featuresbox/wpmm-featuresbox.js?ver=1' id='featuresbox-style-js'></script> <script type='text/javascript' id='postgrid-style-js-extra'> /* <![CDATA[ */ var postgrid_ajax_load = {"ajax_url":"https:\/\/j1visa.state.gov\/wp-admin\/admin-ajax.php","redirecturl":"https:\/\/j1visa.state.gov\/"}; /* ]]> */ </script> <script type='text/javascript' src='https://j1visa.state.gov/wp-content/plugins/wp-megamenu/addons/wpmm-gridpost/wpmm-gridpost.js?ver=1' id='postgrid-style-js'></script> <link rel="https://api.w.org/" href="https://j1visa.state.gov/wp-json/" /><link rel="alternate" type="application/json" href="https://j1visa.state.gov/wp-json/wp/v2/pages/82" /><link rel='shortlink' href='https://j1visa.state.gov/?p=82' /> <link rel="alternate" type="application/json+oembed" href="https://j1visa.state.gov/wp-json/oembed/1.0/embed?url=https%3A%2F%2Fj1visa.state.gov%2Fbasics%2Fcommon-questions%2F" /> <link rel="alternate" type="text/xml+oembed" href="https://j1visa.state.gov/wp-json/oembed/1.0/embed?url=https%3A%2F%2Fj1visa.state.gov%2Fbasics%2Fcommon-questions%2F&format=xml" /> <script type="text/javascript"> (function(url){ if(/(?:Chrome\/26\.0\.1410\.63 Safari\/537\.31|WordfenceTestMonBot)/.test(navigator.userAgent)){ return; } var addEvent = function(evt, handler) { if (window.addEventListener) { document.addEventListener(evt, handler, false); } else if (window.attachEvent) { document.attachEvent('on' + evt, handler); } }; var removeEvent = function(evt, handler) { if (window.removeEventListener) { document.removeEventListener(evt, handler, false); } else if (window.detachEvent) { document.detachEvent('on' + evt, handler); } }; var evts = 'contextmenu dblclick drag dragend dragenter dragleave dragover dragstart drop keydown keypress keyup mousedown mousemove mouseout mouseover mouseup mousewheel scroll'.split(' '); var logHuman = function() { if (window.wfLogHumanRan) { return; } window.wfLogHumanRan = true; var wfscr = document.createElement('script'); wfscr.type = 'text/javascript'; wfscr.async = true; wfscr.src = url + '&r=' + Math.random(); (document.getElementsByTagName('head')[0]||document.getElementsByTagName('body')[0]).appendChild(wfscr); for (var i = 0; i < evts.length; i++) { removeEvent(evts[i], logHuman); } }; for (var i = 0; i < evts.length; i++) { addEvent(evts[i], logHuman); } })('//j1visa.state.gov/?wordfence_lh=1&hid=8061E17EDA184DC8312F4D8C0AC4EC17'); </script><style>.wp-megamenu-wrap > ul.wp-megamenu > li.wpmm_mega_menu > .wpmm-strees-row-container > ul.wp-megamenu-sub-menu { width: 100% !important;}.wp-megamenu > li.wp-megamenu-item-8506.wpmm-item-fixed-width > ul.wp-megamenu-sub-menu { width: 100% !important;}.wpmm-nav-wrap ul.wp-megamenu>li ul.wp-megamenu-sub-menu #wp-megamenu-item-8506>a { }.wpmm-nav-wrap .wp-megamenu>li>ul.wp-megamenu-sub-menu li#wp-megamenu-item-8506>a { }li#wp-megamenu-item-8506> ul ul ul> li { width: 100%; display: inline-block;} li#wp-megamenu-item-8506 a { }#wp-megamenu-item-8506> .wp-megamenu-sub-menu { }.wp-megamenu-wrap > ul.wp-megamenu > li.wpmm_mega_menu > .wpmm-strees-row-container > ul.wp-megamenu-sub-menu { width: 100% !important;}.wp-megamenu > li.wp-megamenu-item-8532.wpmm-item-fixed-width > ul.wp-megamenu-sub-menu { width: 100% !important;}.wpmm-nav-wrap ul.wp-megamenu>li ul.wp-megamenu-sub-menu #wp-megamenu-item-8532>a { }.wpmm-nav-wrap .wp-megamenu>li>ul.wp-megamenu-sub-menu li#wp-megamenu-item-8532>a { }li#wp-megamenu-item-8532> ul ul ul> li { width: 100%; display: inline-block;} li#wp-megamenu-item-8532 a { }#wp-megamenu-item-8532> .wp-megamenu-sub-menu { }.wp-megamenu-wrap > ul.wp-megamenu > li.wpmm_mega_menu > .wpmm-strees-row-container > ul.wp-megamenu-sub-menu { width: 100% !important;}.wp-megamenu > li.wp-megamenu-item-8533.wpmm-item-fixed-width > ul.wp-megamenu-sub-menu { width: 100% !important;}.wpmm-nav-wrap ul.wp-megamenu>li ul.wp-megamenu-sub-menu #wp-megamenu-item-8533>a { }.wpmm-nav-wrap .wp-megamenu>li>ul.wp-megamenu-sub-menu li#wp-megamenu-item-8533>a { }li#wp-megamenu-item-8533> ul ul ul> li { width: 100%; display: inline-block;} li#wp-megamenu-item-8533 a { }#wp-megamenu-item-8533> .wp-megamenu-sub-menu { }.wp-megamenu-wrap > ul.wp-megamenu > li.wpmm_mega_menu > .wpmm-strees-row-container > ul.wp-megamenu-sub-menu { width: 100% !important;}.wp-megamenu > li.wp-megamenu-item-8531.wpmm-item-fixed-width > ul.wp-megamenu-sub-menu { width: 100% !important;}.wpmm-nav-wrap ul.wp-megamenu>li ul.wp-megamenu-sub-menu #wp-megamenu-item-8531>a { }.wpmm-nav-wrap .wp-megamenu>li>ul.wp-megamenu-sub-menu li#wp-megamenu-item-8531>a { }li#wp-megamenu-item-8531> ul ul ul> li { width: 100%; display: inline-block;} li#wp-megamenu-item-8531 a { }#wp-megamenu-item-8531> .wp-megamenu-sub-menu { }.wp-megamenu-wrap > ul.wp-megamenu > li.wpmm_mega_menu > .wpmm-strees-row-container > ul.wp-megamenu-sub-menu { width: 100% !important;}.wp-megamenu > li.wp-megamenu-item-8534.wpmm-item-fixed-width > ul.wp-megamenu-sub-menu { width: 100% !important;}.wpmm-nav-wrap ul.wp-megamenu>li ul.wp-megamenu-sub-menu #wp-megamenu-item-8534>a { }.wpmm-nav-wrap .wp-megamenu>li>ul.wp-megamenu-sub-menu li#wp-megamenu-item-8534>a { }li#wp-megamenu-item-8534> ul ul ul> li { width: 100%; display: inline-block;} li#wp-megamenu-item-8534 a { }#wp-megamenu-item-8534> .wp-megamenu-sub-menu { }.wp-megamenu-wrap > ul.wp-megamenu > li.wpmm_mega_menu > .wpmm-strees-row-container > ul.wp-megamenu-sub-menu { width: 100% !important;}.wp-megamenu > li.wp-megamenu-item-8535.wpmm-item-fixed-width > ul.wp-megamenu-sub-menu { width: 100% !important;}.wpmm-nav-wrap ul.wp-megamenu>li ul.wp-megamenu-sub-menu #wp-megamenu-item-8535>a { }.wpmm-nav-wrap .wp-megamenu>li>ul.wp-megamenu-sub-menu li#wp-megamenu-item-8535>a { }li#wp-megamenu-item-8535> ul ul ul> li { width: 100%; display: inline-block;} li#wp-megamenu-item-8535 a { }#wp-megamenu-item-8535> .wp-megamenu-sub-menu { }.wp-megamenu-wrap > ul.wp-megamenu > li.wpmm_mega_menu > .wpmm-strees-row-container > ul.wp-megamenu-sub-menu { width: 100% !important;}.wp-megamenu > li.wp-megamenu-item-8592.wpmm-item-fixed-width > ul.wp-megamenu-sub-menu { width: 100% !important;}.wpmm-nav-wrap ul.wp-megamenu>li ul.wp-megamenu-sub-menu #wp-megamenu-item-8592>a { }.wpmm-nav-wrap .wp-megamenu>li>ul.wp-megamenu-sub-menu li#wp-megamenu-item-8592>a { }li#wp-megamenu-item-8592> ul ul ul> li { width: 100%; display: inline-block;} li#wp-megamenu-item-8592 a { }#wp-megamenu-item-8592> .wp-megamenu-sub-menu { }.wp-megamenu-wrap > ul.wp-megamenu > li.wpmm_mega_menu > .wpmm-strees-row-container > ul.wp-megamenu-sub-menu { width: 100% !important;}.wp-megamenu > li.wp-megamenu-item-8815.wpmm-item-fixed-width > ul.wp-megamenu-sub-menu { width: 100% !important;}.wpmm-nav-wrap ul.wp-megamenu>li ul.wp-megamenu-sub-menu #wp-megamenu-item-8815>a { }.wpmm-nav-wrap .wp-megamenu>li>ul.wp-megamenu-sub-menu li#wp-megamenu-item-8815>a { }li#wp-megamenu-item-8815> ul ul ul> li { width: 100%; display: inline-block;} li#wp-megamenu-item-8815 a { }#wp-megamenu-item-8815> .wp-megamenu-sub-menu { }</style><style></style><meta name="tec-api-version" content="v1"><meta name="tec-api-origin" content="https://j1visa.state.gov"><link rel="alternate" href="https://j1visa.state.gov/wp-json/tribe/events/v1/" /> <meta property="og:title" content="Common Questions" /> <meta property="og:type" content="article" /> <meta property="og:url" content="http://j1visa.state.gov/basics/common-questions/?aid=21" /> <meta property="og:image" content="http://j1visa.state.gov/wp-content/themes/j1visa/images/icons/icon-fb-badge.jpg" /> <meta property="og:site_name" content="J-1 Visa" /> <meta property="og:description" content="The J-1 Visa offers cultural and educational exchange opportunities in the U.S. through a variety of programs through the U.S. State Department. J-1 Exchange Visitor programs include au pair, summer work travel, internship, secondary school and university student exchanges, physician exchanges, and more." /> </head>  <noscript><iframe src="https://www.googletagmanager.com/ns.html?id=GTM-K5443M" height="0" width="0" style="display:none;visibility:hidden"></iframe></noscript> <script>(function(w,d,s,l,i){w[l]=w[l]||[];w[l].push({'gtm.start': new Date().getTime(),event:'gtm.js'});var f=d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0], j=d.createElement(s),dl=l!='dataLayer'?'&l='+l:'';j.async=true;j.src= 'https://www.googletagmanager.com/gtm.js?id='+i+dl;f.parentNode.insertBefore(j,f); })(window,document,'script','dataLayer','GTM-K5443M');</script>  <body class="page-template page-template-common-questions-tabbed page-template-common-questions-tabbed-php page page-id-82 page-child parent-pageid-33 wp-megamenu tribe-no-js"> <ul class="visuallyhidden"> <li><a href="#nav">Skip to main navigation</a></li> <li><a href="#sub-nav">Skip to sub-navigation</a></li> <li><a href="#page-title">Skip to main content</a></li> <li><a href="#site-map">Skip to site map</a></li> </ul> <div id="container" class="left-nav">  <div style="display:none;background-color: red; padding: .5em;"><ul style="margin-top: 0px;margin-bottom: 0px;list-style-type: disc;margin-left:15px;left: 0.5em;position:relative;"><li style=" color:#ffffff;padding:0px;"><a href="https://j1visa.state.gov/covid-19/" style="color:#ffffff; letter-spacing: 0.32px;font-family:'Public Sans',sans-serif !important;font-weight:bold;text-decoration:none; font-size: 16px" target="_blank">Exchange Visitor Program Information on Coronavirus (COVID-19)</a></li><li style="color:#ffffff;padding:0px;"><a href="https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/News/visas-news/visa-services-operating-status-update.html" style="color:#ffffff; letter-spacing: 0.32px;font-family:'Public Sans',sans-serif !important;font-weight:bold;text-decoration:none; font-size: 16px" target="_blank">Visa Services Operating Status Update (November 19, 2021)</a></li></ul></div>  <div id="inner-wrap"> <div id="logo"><a href="https://j1visa.state.gov" title="Return to Homepage"><img src="/wp-content/themes/j1visa/images/logos/logo-j1-top.png" alt="Exchange Visitor Program"/></a></div> <form id="site-search" method="get" action="/" style="margin-top:60px;"> <fieldset> <legend class="hidden">Search Site</legend> <label class="visuallyhidden" for="search-field">Search Field</label> <input id="search-field" type="text" name="s" placeholder="Search Exchange Visitor Program" /> <input type="image" src="/wp-content/themes/j1visa/images/forms/btn-site-search-submit.png" alt="Submit site search parameters"/> </fieldset> <div style="margin-top:7px;margin-bottom:0px;float:right;" ><a href="/routej1" ><img src="/wp-content/themes/j1visa/images/buttons/btn-lite-routej1.png" alt="Route J1 Blog" onmouseover="this.src='/wp-content/themes/j1visa/images/buttons/btn-drk-routej1.png';" onmouseout="this.src='/wp-content/themes/j1visa/images/buttons/btn-lite-routej1.png';"></a></div> </form> <div id="nav" class="clearfix"> <nav id="wp-megamenu-top-menu" class="wp-megamenu-wrap "> <div class="wpmm-fullwidth-wrap"></div> <div class="wpmm-nav-wrap wpmm-main-wrap-"> <a href="javascript:;" class="wpmm_mobile_menu_btn "><i class="fa fa-bars"></i> </a> <ul id="menu-top-menu" class="wp-megamenu"><li id="wp-megamenu-item-8506" class="menu-item menu-item-type-post_type menu-item-object-page current-page-ancestor menu-item-has-children wp-megamenu-item-8506 wpmm_dropdown_menu wpmm-none wpmm-submenu-right"><a title="Basic Information" href="https://j1visa.state.gov/basics/">VISA BASICS</a> <ul class="wp-megamenu-sub-menu" > <li id="wp-megamenu-item-8595" class="menu-item menu-item-type-custom menu-item-object-custom wp-megamenu-item-8595 wpmm-submenu-right"><a title="Learn about the J-1 Visa" href="/basics/">J-1 VISA</a></li> <li id="wp-megamenu-item-8537" class="menu-item menu-item-type-custom menu-item-object-custom wp-megamenu-item-8537 wpmm-submenu-right"><a title="Learn about the J-2 Visa" href="/basics/j2-visa/">J-2 VISA</a></li> <li id="wp-megamenu-item-8596" class="menu-item menu-item-type-custom menu-item-object-custom wp-megamenu-item-8596 wpmm-submenu-right"><a title="Learn about Other Student Visas" href="/basics/other-u-s-visas/">OTHER STUDENT VISAS</a></li> <li id="wp-megamenu-item-8535" class="menu-item menu-item-type-custom menu-item-object-custom wp-megamenu-item-8535 wpmm-submenu-right"><a title="View statistics and geographical information about participants and sponsors" href="/basics/facts-and-figures/">FACTS & FIGURES</a></li> <li id="wp-megamenu-item-8808" class="menu-item menu-item-type-custom menu-item-object-custom wp-megamenu-item-8808 wpmm-submenu-right"><a title="Frequently Asked Questions" href="/faqs/">FAQs</a></li> </ul> </li> <li id="wp-megamenu-item-8531" class="menu-item menu-item-type-custom menu-item-object-custom menu-item-has-children wp-megamenu-item-8531 wpmm_dropdown_menu wpmm-none wpmm-submenu-right"><a title="Listing of Visa Programs" href="/programs">PROGRAMS</a> <ul class="wp-megamenu-sub-menu" > <li id="wp-megamenu-item-8815" class="menu-item menu-item-type-custom menu-item-object-custom wp-megamenu-item-8815 wpmm-submenu-right"><a title="Learn More about Stem Initiatives" href="/programs/stem-initiatives/">NEW STEM INITIATIVES</a></li> <li id="wp-megamenu-item-8579" class="menu-item menu-item-type-custom menu-item-object-custom wp-megamenu-item-8579 wpmm-submenu-right"><a title="Learn about the Au Pair program" href="/programs/au-pair">AU PAIR</a></li> <li id="wp-megamenu-item-8580" class="menu-item menu-item-type-custom menu-item-object-custom wp-megamenu-item-8580 wpmm-submenu-right"><a title="Learn about the Camp Counselor program" href="/programs/camp-counselor">CAMP COUNSELOR</a></li> <li id="wp-megamenu-item-8581" class="menu-item menu-item-type-custom menu-item-object-custom wp-megamenu-item-8581 wpmm-submenu-right"><a title="Learn about the College and University Student program" href="/programs/college-and-university-student">COLLEGE AND UNIVERSITY<br>STUDENT</a></li> <li id="wp-megamenu-item-8582" class="menu-item menu-item-type-custom menu-item-object-custom wp-megamenu-item-8582 wpmm-submenu-right"><a title="Learn about the Government Visitor program" href="/programs/government-visitor">GOVERNMENT VISITOR</a></li> <li id="wp-megamenu-item-8583" class="menu-item menu-item-type-custom menu-item-object-custom wp-megamenu-item-8583 wpmm-submenu-right"><a title="Learn about the Intern program" href="/programs/intern-program">INTERN</a></li> <li id="wp-megamenu-item-8584" class="menu-item menu-item-type-custom menu-item-object-custom wp-megamenu-item-8584 wpmm-submenu-right"><a title="Learn about the International Visitor program" href="/programs/international-visitor">INTERNATIONAL VISITOR</a></li> <li id="wp-megamenu-item-8585" class="menu-item menu-item-type-custom menu-item-object-custom wp-megamenu-item-8585 wpmm-submenu-right"><a title="Learn about the Physician program" href="/programs/physician">PHYSICIAN</a></li> <li id="wp-megamenu-item-8586" class="menu-item menu-item-type-custom menu-item-object-custom wp-megamenu-item-8586 wpmm-submenu-right"><a title="Learn about the Professor program" href="/programs/professor">PROFESSOR</a></li> <li id="wp-megamenu-item-8588" class="menu-item menu-item-type-custom menu-item-object-custom wp-megamenu-item-8588 wpmm-submenu-right"><a title="Learn about the Research Scholar program" href="/programs/research-scholar">RESEARCH SCHOLAR</a></li> <li id="wp-megamenu-item-8589" class="menu-item menu-item-type-custom menu-item-object-custom wp-megamenu-item-8589 wpmm-submenu-right"><a title="Learn about the Secondary School Student program" href="/programs/secondary-school-student">SECONDARY SCHOOL<br>STUDENT</a></li> <li id="wp-megamenu-item-8590" class="menu-item menu-item-type-custom menu-item-object-custom wp-megamenu-item-8590 wpmm-submenu-right"><a title="Learn about the Short-Term Scholar program" href="/programs/short-term-scholar">SHORT-TERM SCHOLAR</a></li> <li id="wp-megamenu-item-8591" class="menu-item menu-item-type-custom menu-item-object-custom wp-megamenu-item-8591 wpmm-submenu-right"><a title="Learn about the Specialist program" href="/programs/specialist">SPECIALIST</a></li> <li id="wp-megamenu-item-8592" class="menu-item menu-item-type-custom menu-item-object-custom wp-megamenu-item-8592 wpmm-submenu-right"><a title="Learn about the Summer Work Travel program" href="/programs/summer-work-travel">SUMMER WORK TRAVEL</a></li> <li id="wp-megamenu-item-8593" class="menu-item menu-item-type-custom menu-item-object-custom wp-megamenu-item-8593 wpmm-submenu-right"><a title="Learn about the Teacher program" href="/programs/teacher">TEACHER</a></li> <li id="wp-megamenu-item-8594" class="menu-item menu-item-type-custom menu-item-object-custom wp-megamenu-item-8594 wpmm-submenu-right"><a title="Learn about the Trainee program" href="/programs/trainee">TRAINEE</a></li> </ul> </li> <li id="wp-megamenu-item-8532" class="menu-item menu-item-type-custom menu-item-object-custom menu-item-has-children wp-megamenu-item-8532 wpmm_dropdown_menu wpmm-none wpmm-submenu-right"><a title="Information for Participants" href="/participants">PARTICIPANTS</a> <ul class="wp-megamenu-sub-menu" > <li id="wp-megamenu-item-8565" class="menu-item menu-item-type-custom menu-item-object-custom wp-megamenu-item-8565 wpmm-submenu-right"><a title="Learn about the application process" href="/participants/how-to-apply/">APPLY FOR A J-1 VISA</a></li> <li id="wp-megamenu-item-8536" class="menu-item menu-item-type-custom menu-item-object-custom wp-megamenu-item-8536 wpmm-submenu-right"><a title="Learn about Adjustments and Extensions" href="/participants/current/adjustments-and-extensions/">CURRENT J-1 VISA HOLDERS</a></li> <li id="wp-megamenu-item-8642" class="menu-item menu-item-type-custom menu-item-object-custom wp-megamenu-item-8642 wpmm-submenu-right"><a title="Learn about the Ambassadors Fund" href="https://www.swtscholarships.org/">AMBASSADORS FUND FOR SUMMER WORK TRAVEL</a></li> <li id="wp-megamenu-item-8643" class="menu-item menu-item-type-custom menu-item-object-custom wp-megamenu-item-8643 wpmm-submenu-right"><a title="Learn about the Leadership Development Program" href="https://www.bridgeusaldp.org/">BRIDGEUSA LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM</a></li> </ul> </li> <li id="wp-megamenu-item-8533" class="menu-item menu-item-type-custom menu-item-object-custom menu-item-has-children wp-megamenu-item-8533 wpmm_dropdown_menu wpmm-none wpmm-submenu-right"><a title="Information for Program Sponsors" href="/sponsors">PROGRAM SPONSORS</a> <ul class="wp-megamenu-sub-menu" > <li id="wp-megamenu-item-8570" class="menu-item menu-item-type-custom menu-item-object-custom wp-megamenu-item-8570 wpmm-submenu-right"><a title="Learn how to become a Sponsor" href="/sponsors/become-a-sponsor/">APPLY TO BE A SPONSOR</a></li> <li id="wp-megamenu-item-8571" class="menu-item menu-item-type-custom menu-item-object-custom wp-megamenu-item-8571 wpmm-submenu-right"><a title="Information for Current Sponsors" href="/sponsors/current/">CURRENT SPONSORS</a></li> </ul> </li> <li id="wp-megamenu-item-8534" class="menu-item menu-item-type-custom menu-item-object-custom menu-item-has-children wp-megamenu-item-8534 wpmm_dropdown_menu wpmm-none wpmm-submenu-right"><a title="Information for Hosts" href="/hosts-and-employers">HOSTS</a> <ul class="wp-megamenu-sub-menu" > <li id="wp-megamenu-item-8572" class="menu-item menu-item-type-custom menu-item-object-custom wp-megamenu-item-8572 wpmm-submenu-right"><a title="Information for Host Schools" href="/hosts-and-employers/schools/">SCHOOLS</a></li> <li id="wp-megamenu-item-8573" class="menu-item menu-item-type-custom menu-item-object-custom wp-megamenu-item-8573 wpmm-submenu-right"><a title="Information for Host Families" href="/hosts-and-employers/host-families/">FAMILIES</a></li> <li id="wp-megamenu-item-8574" class="menu-item menu-item-type-custom menu-item-object-custom wp-megamenu-item-8574 wpmm-submenu-right"><a title="Information for Host Employers" href="/hosts-and-employers/employers/">EMPLOYERS</a></li> </ul> </li> </ul> </div> </nav> </div> <div id="content-wrapper" class="clearfix"> <div id="sub-nav-col"><h2><a href='https://j1visa.state.gov/?page_id=33'>J-1 Visa Basics</a></h2><ul id='sub-nav'><li class='open '><a class='current' href='https://j1visa.state.gov/?page_id=82'>Common Questions</a></li><li class=''><a class='' href='https://j1visa.state.gov/?page_id=75'>Other U.S. Student Visas</a></li><li class=''><a class='' href='https://j1visa.state.gov/?page_id=65'>About the J-2 Visa</a></li><li class=''><a class='' href='https://j1visa.state.gov/?page_id=80'>Facts and Figures</a></li></ul></div> <div id="main-content-col"> <h1 id="page-title" class="tabbed-questions-page-header">Common Questions</h1> <div class="utils-sharing"> <div class="util-tweet"> <script src="http://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" type="text/javascript"></script> <a href="http://twitter.com/share" class="twitter-share-button" data-count='horizontal' data-text="Check out 'Common Questions' on the State Department J-1 Visa website:">Tweet</a> </div> <div class="util-share"> <?get_facebook_share()?> </div> </div> <div class='tabbed tabbed-questions'> <div id="content-1" class='content-piece'> <h2 id="participants" class='tab'>Participants</h2> <div class='accordion questions-accordion'> <h3 class='accordion-toggle'>Basics</h3> <div class='accordion-content'> <div class='accordion'> <h3 class='accordion-toggle'><p>Where can I find a list of the designated program sponsors who have expressed a specific interest in the Early Career STEM Research Initiative?</p> </h3> <div class='accordion-content' id="52"><p>You can find the list of interested sponsors and points of contact here: <a href="https://j1visa.state.gov/programs/early-career-stem-research-initiative/#get-started">https://j1visa.state.gov/programs/early-career-stem-research-initiative/#get-started</a></p> </div> <h3 class='accordion-toggle'><p>Who should I contact if I have concerns about the health or safety of a participant?</p> </h3> <div class='accordion-content' id="51"><p>The State Department has activated a helpline to ensure the health and safety of all exchange participants. Participants, or anyone concerned about a participant, can contact the State Department at any time via the hotline <strong>1-866-283-9090</strong> or at<strong> <a href="mailto:jvisas@state.gov" rel="noreferrer">jvisas@state.gov</a></strong>.</p> <p>Among other prohibitions, no sponsor may threaten program termination, or otherwise retaliate against a participant solely because he or she has instituted a complaint or taken action to gain assistance from an outside entity regarding a complaint.</p> </div> <h3 class='accordion-toggle'><p>If a college/university student temporarily returns to their home country due to a medical condition, can they continue their J-1 student program while studying remotely from abroad? In such a case, is a letter required from a physician specifying the need for remote study from abroad based on the medical diagnosis?</p> </h3> <div class='accordion-content' id="53"><p>Yes, college and university student sponsors have the discretion to approve requests for temporary disruption of studies on a case-by-case basis provided that exchange visitors meet their individual institutions’ criteria.</p> <p>The Exchange Visitor Program regulations for the College/University Student category offers foreign students the opportunity to study in the United States at a post-secondary accredited academic institution. Except during official breaks (e.g., academic calendar summer break), exchange visitors must conduct their program activities, whether in-person or virtual, within the United States. However, in the rare circumstance when a college and university student exchange visitor has a medical necessity to temporarily return home with the intention to continue their program in the United States, sponsors have the discretion to approve this temporary interruption to studies as long as the post-secondary student/exchange visitor maintains funding and health insurance for the duration of their program. Additionally, the exchange visitor must present the Responsible Officer a written statement from a physician recommending an interruption or reduction in studies per 22 CFR 62.23(e)(2) and specifying the need for remote study from abroad. The sponsor has the discretion to approve or deny a student’s request for temporary remote study; a sponsor should use this discretion sparingly. If the sponsor approves the exchange visitor’s request, the exchange visitor must obtain a travel validation signature on their Form DS-2019 prior to international travel. As a reminder, all serious injuries and illnesses that impact an exchange visitor’s program should be reported to the Office of Private Sector Exchange Program Administration (OPA).</p> <p>If an exchange visitor needs to temporarily return home for medical care and cannot return to the U.S. to resume program activities, the sponsor must shorten the exchange visitor’s program end date using the “Medical Emergency and/or Health of Exchange Visitor” drop-down option in SEVIS.</p> <p>As a reminder, effective July 1, 2023, ECA ended its temporary modifications of the Exchange Visitor Program in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. All ECA exchange programs are expected to comply with category regulations of 22 CFR Part 62, which encompass <em>predominantly </em>in-person program activities. Please see: <a href="https://staging.j1visa.state.gov/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/2023-01_Guidance-Directive_remote-and-online-3.pdf">Guidance Directive 2023-01 Exchange visitor participation in host organizations’ remote policies or enrollment in online classes.</a> This Guidance Directive supersedes any prior guidance on this topic.</p> </div> <h3 class='accordion-toggle'><p>Can I apply for an extension?</p> </h3> <div class='accordion-content' id="47"><p>Yes, your program sponsor may extend your program up to its maximum length. If an extension is granted, a new Form DS-2019 will be issued to you reflecting the change. </p> <p>More information is available on the <a target="" title="" href="/participants/current/adjustments-and-extensions/">adjustments and extensions</a> page.</p> </div> <h3 class='accordion-toggle'><p>How long does it take to obtain a Exchange Visitor Visa?</p> </h3> <div class='accordion-content' id="10"><p>The wait time for an interview and processing for a Exchange Visitor Visa varies from country to country and is based on your individual circumstances. Learn more about interview wait and processing times by visiting <a title="" href="http://www.travel.state.gov" target="_blank">www.travel.state.gov</a>. We encourage you to apply as soon as possible. Please note that exchange visitors beginning new programs may not enter the United States more than 30 days before their program start date.</p> </div> <h3 class='accordion-toggle'><p>What is the purpose of the exchange visitor program?</p> </h3> <div class='accordion-content' id="9"><p>The Exchange Visitor Program fosters global understanding through educational and cultural exchanges.  All exchange visitors are expected to return to their home country upon completion of their program in order to share their exchange experiences.</p> </div> <h3 class='accordion-toggle'><p>Where do I apply for an exchange visitor visa?</p> </h3> <div class='accordion-content' id="8"><p>Once you obtain a Form DS-2019 from a Sponsor, you may apply for an exchange visitor visa at the nearest <a target="_blank" title="" href="http://www.usembassy.gov">U.S. embassy or consulate</a> in your country of residence.  Also, if you are married, your spouse and any children can apply for an exchange visitor (J-2) visa when you apply, or join you after you are in the United States if the exchange category in which you are participating permits an accompanying spouse and/or dependents (i.e. regulations prohibit an accompanying spouse in the categories of Camp Counselor, Summer Work Travel, Au pair and Secondary School Student).   In some cases an individual sponsor’s program will not permit a spouse or dependents to accompany their participants.  If you are married and/or have dependents who you wish to bring to the United States with you, inquire about this issue when seeking a sponsor.</p> </div> </div> </div> <h3 class='accordion-toggle'>Exiting the Program</h3> <div class='accordion-content'> <div class='accordion'> <h3 class='accordion-toggle'><p>Can I participate in another Exchange Visitor program after finishing my current program?</p> </h3> <div class='accordion-content' id="49"><p>Your current Exchange Visitor Visa is ONLY applicable for your current exchange program and under your current program sponsor. Upon completion of your current Exchange Visitor Program, you are expected to depart the United States.</p> <p>If you intend to pursue a 2nd exchange program (in a different category and with a different sponsor), you will need to apply for a new Exchange Visitor Visa for your new exchange program and new sponsor – in order to reenter the U.S. for the 2nd program.</p> </div> <h3 class='accordion-toggle'><p>How long before my Exchange Visitor Program starts can I arrive in the United States?  How long can I remain after my program ends?</p> </h3> <div class='accordion-content' id="17"><p>You may not arrive more than 30 days before the program start date shown on your DS-2019.  Upon completion of your exchange program, you have a grace period of 30 days to depart the United States.</p> </div> <h3 class='accordion-toggle'><p>My visa has expired during the program.<br /> What do I do?</p> </h3> <div class='accordion-content' id="48"><p>If your visa has expired and you do not plan to travel outside of the U.S., you do not need to renew the visa. </p> <p>Please be aware that if you travel outside of the United States during your current exchange visitor program and after your J-1 visa has expired, you must apply for a new J-1 visa in your home country in order to re-enter the United States to continue your program.</p> <p>Your sponsor is responsible for assisting and advising you on all matters relating to your J-1 program, including authorizing travel outside of the U.S. and ensuring that your J-1 non-immigrant documents are valid at all times.</p> </div> <h3 class='accordion-toggle'><p>What will happen to my Exchange Visitor Visa status if my exchange visitor program sponsor terminates my exchange visitor program?</p> </h3> <div class='accordion-content' id="19"><style type="text/css">  </style> <p style="margin-bottom: 0.19in; widows: 0; orphans: 0">If your sponsor terminates your participation in their exchange program for just cause, the sponsor will enter this information into SEVIS and you will be expected to depart the United States immediately. You will not be entitled to the post-completion 30-day period because you did not successfully complete your program.</p> </div> </div> </div> <h3 class='accordion-toggle'>Important Contacts</h3> <div class='accordion-content'> <div class='accordion'> <h3 class='accordion-toggle'><p>Who should I contact about changing my visa status while I am in the United States?</p> </h3> <div class='accordion-content' id="26"><p>You should contact the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).</p> </div> <h3 class='accordion-toggle'><p>Who should I contact if I have a concern and it is not being addressed by my sponsor?</p> </h3> <div class='accordion-content' id="50"><p>The State Department has activated a helpline to ensure the health and safety of its exchange participants. Among other prohibitions, no sponsor may threaten program termination, or otherwise retaliate against a participant solely because he or she has instituted a complaint or taken action to gain assistance from an outside entity regarding a complaint. Participants can contact the State Department at any time via the hotline 1-866-283-9090 or at <a href="mailto:jvisas@state.gov">jvisas@state.gov</a>.</p> </div> <h3 class='accordion-toggle'><p>Who should I contact if I have a question or concern about my exchange visitor program?</p> </h3> <div class='accordion-content' id="27"><p>Contact your designated sponsor, whose name and telephone number are listed on Form DS-2019.</p> </div> <h3 class='accordion-toggle'><p>Who should I contact regarding my SEVIS registration?</p> </h3> <div class='accordion-content' id="25"><p>You should contact your J-1 program sponsor. Your sponsor is responsible for assisting and advising you on all matters regarding your J-1 exchange visitor program.</p> </div> <h3 class='accordion-toggle'><p>Who should I contact regarding problems obtaining a Social Security card?</p> </h3> <div class='accordion-content' id="24"><p>You should contact your designated sponsor and the Social Security Administration.</p> </div> </div> </div> <h3 class='accordion-toggle'>Important Documents</h3> <div class='accordion-content'> <div class='accordion'> <h3 class='accordion-toggle'><p>Are there regulations, which govern the Exchange Visitor Program ?</p> </h3> <div class='accordion-content' id="12"><p>Yes, the regulations are set forth at Code of Federal Regulations, Title 22:  Foreign Relations, Part 62.</p> </div> <h3 class='accordion-toggle'><p>What documents are needed to apply for an Exchange Visitor Visa?</p> </h3> <div class='accordion-content' id="11"><ul> <li>Form DS-2019 (Certificate of Eligibility) issued by your program sponsor</li> <li>Other supporting documents – check the specific embassy or consulate website</li> <li>Passport valid for travel to the United States</li> <li>Completed Online Form DS-160, nonimmigrant visa application</li> <li>Fee receipt showing payment of the $140 visa application fee</li> <li>2×2 photograph, meeting format requirements</li> </ul> <p>For more information about Exchange Visitor Visas, please see the Bureau of Consular Affairs’ <a href="http://travel.state.gov/visa/temp/types/types_1267.html" target="_blank">exchange visitor visa website</a>. For detailed information about how to make a visa interview appointment at an embassy or consulate, how to pay the application processing fee and more, go to the visa information on the <a href="http://www.usembassy.gov/" target="_blank">U.S. embassy or consulate</a> website where you will apply for your visa.</p> </div> <h3 class='accordion-toggle'><p>What is Form DS-2019 (Certificate of Eligibility)?</p> </h3> <div class='accordion-content' id="7"><p>A SEVIS-generated Form DS-2019 is required when applying for the J-1 Visa.  The DS-2019 is a controlled form provided to you by your program sponsor.   It documents your acceptance to an exchange program sponsored by a State Department designated Exchange Visitor Program sponsor.</p> </div> <h3 class='accordion-toggle'><p>Where do I obtain a DS-2019?</p> </h3> <div class='accordion-content' id="1"><p>Designated sponsors are authorized to issue Form DS-2019 to prospective or current exchange visitors they select for their program.</p> </div> </div> </div> <h3 class='accordion-toggle'>My Sponsor</h3> <div class='accordion-content'> <div class='accordion'> <h3 class='accordion-toggle'><p>As an Exchange Visitor Visa holder, am I allowed to work?</p> </h3> <div class='accordion-content' id="15"><p style="margin-bottom: 0in; widows: 0; orphans: 0">An Exchange Visitor Visa holder is only allowed to perform the activity listed on his/her Form DS-2019 and as stated in the regulations for that category of exchange.</p> </div> <h3 class='accordion-toggle'><p>Do designated sponsors only work in one state?</p> </h3> <div class='accordion-content' id="46"><p>The addresses listed in the <a href="/participants/how-to-apply/sponsor-search/">Designated Sponsors List</a> are the official locations of the designated sponsor organizations. Many sponsors can place participants anywhere in the United States, regardless of their official location. Please consult with the individual sponsor for details.</p> </div> <h3 class='accordion-toggle'><p>Do I need a sponsor?</p> </h3> <div class='accordion-content' id="14"><p>Yes. The State Department designates U.S. government, academic and private sector entities to conduct educational and cultural exchange programs. To participate in the Exchange Visitor Program, foreign nationals must be sponsored by one of the State Department-designated sponsors.</p> <p>The program sponsors are responsible for screening and selecting eligible foreign nationals for participation in their designated exchange visitor program, as well as supporting and monitoring exchange visitors during their stay in the United States.</p> <p>Refer to the <a target="" title="" href="/participants/how-to-apply/sponsor-search/">list of designated sponsors</a> and their programs.</p> </div> <h3 class='accordion-toggle'><p>How can I work for an employer other than the program sponsor?</p> </h3> <div class='accordion-content' id="16"><p>A J-1 holder may only perform the activity listed on his/her Form DS-2019, or as provided for in the regulations for the specific category for which entry was obtained and with the approval of the Sponsor’s Responsible or Alternate Responsible Officer. </p> </div> </div> </div> <h3 class='accordion-toggle'>Tax & Immigration Requirements</h3> <div class='accordion-content'> <div class='accordion'> <h3 class='accordion-toggle'><p>How can I apply for a waiver of the two-year home-country physical presence requirement? </p> </h3> <div class='accordion-content' id="22"><p>Detailed information and access to the online waiver application is available on these Bureau of Consular Affairs’ websites:</p> <ul> <li><a href="https://j1visawaiverstatus.state.gov" target="_blank">J-Visa Waiver Division</a></li> <li><a href="https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/study/exchange/waiver-of-the-exchange-visitor.html" target="_blank">Waiver of the Exchange Visitor Two-Year Home-Country Physical Presence Requirement</a></li> </div> <h3 class='accordion-toggle'><p>How do I know if I am subject to the two-year home-country foreign residency requirement?</p> </h3> <div class='accordion-content' id="21"><p>When you agree to participate in an Exchange Visitor Program you will be subject to the two-year home-country foreign residency requirement if your exchange program is funded by either your government or the U.S. government, involves specialized knowledge or skills deemed necessary by your home country or you received graduate medical training. If this requirement applies, you must return to your home country for a cumulative total of two years at the end of your exchange visitor program.  You are not prohibited from traveling to the United States but may not benefit from certain employment-based or family-based visas until the foreign residency requirement is satisfied.</p> </div> <h3 class='accordion-toggle'><p>Will I have to pay taxes on my salary if I am working and receiving wages while on an Exchange Visitor Visa? </p> </h3> <div class='accordion-content' id="20"><p style="margin-bottom: 0.19in; widows: 0; orphans: 0">Check with your sponsor for detailed information about taxes.</p> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div id="content-2" class='content-piece'> <h2 id="sponsor-programs" class='tab'>Program Sponsors</h2> <div class='accordion questions-accordion'> <h3 class='accordion-toggle'>Common Dilemmas</h3> <div class='accordion-content'> <div class='accordion'> <h3 class='accordion-toggle'><p>What are program sponsors’ responsibilities toward exchange visitor participants in the event of a national emergency or natural disaster in the United States?</p> </h3> <div class='accordion-content' id="39"><p>Though not a regulatory requirement, sponsors should have a plan in place in the event of a natural disaster or national emergency for contacting and providing information, assistance and instructions to exchange visitor participants and their accompanying spouse and dependents.</p> </div> <h3 class='accordion-toggle'><p>What do I do if one of my exchange visitors loses his/her passport?</p> </h3> <div class='accordion-content' id="41"><p>A foreign visitor in the United State who loses their passport must immediately contact their home country’s embassy or consulate to report the loss and find out how to replace it. <a target="_blank" title="" href="http://www.embassy.org">Embassy.org</a> provides information on each of the embassies located in Washington, D.C.  The participant should also contact their Sponsor to obtain a new copy of their Form DS-2019 to present to their Home country’s embassy or consulate to get the new passport.</p> </div> <h3 class='accordion-toggle'><p>What do I do if one of my exchange visitor’s Form DS-2019 is lost or stolen? </p> </h3> <div class='accordion-content' id="40"><p>Forms DS-2019 can be reprinted in SEVIS when necessary, with an appropriate explanation entered in the exchange visitor’s record.</p> </div> <h3 class='accordion-toggle'><p>What do I do when a dependent turns 21?</p> </h3> <div class='accordion-content' id="42"><p>An accompanying family member who turns 21 years of age is no longer eligible to be in the United States as a dependent in J-2 status, and must depart the country or apply for a change to another type of non-immigrant status.</p> </div> </div> </div> <h3 class='accordion-toggle'>Designation & Requirements</h3> <div class='accordion-content'> <div class='accordion'> <h3 class='accordion-toggle'><p>Does the State Department recommend any of its Exchange Visitor Program designated sponsors?</p> </h3> <div class='accordion-content' id="34"><p>The State Department does not recommend or “rate” any of the designated sponsors. Designation by the State Department indicates sponsors have complied with all applicable regulations for obtaining designation and are in good standing.</p> </div> <h3 class='accordion-toggle'><p>How can my organization apply for designation as an Exchange Visitor Program sponsor?</p> </h3> <div class='accordion-content' id="31"><p>The application requirements and procedures for designation as an Exchange Visitor Program sponsor are contained on our website. Please note that program sponsors, with exception of Federal Agencies, must have a minimum of five exchange visitor participants on an annual basis in order to remain eligible for designation.</p> </div> <h3 class='accordion-toggle'><p>What are some of the responsibilities and obligations of the State Department-designated Exchange Visitor Program sponsors? </p> </h3> <div class='accordion-content' id="33"><p>The State Department-designated sponsors are responsible for all aspects of the exchange program, including screening and selecting of foreign national participants and monitoring the participants throughout their exchange visitor program in the United States.  These sponsors can explain their program requirements and how their program works.  For more information on sponsors’ responsibilities and obligations, please visit the <a target="" title="Sponsors main page" href="/sponsors/">Sponsors main page</a>.</p> </div> <h3 class='accordion-toggle'><p>Who are the State Department-designated Exchange Visitor Program sponsors?</p> </h3> <div class='accordion-content' id="32"><p>Exchange Visitor Program sponsors are comprised of U.S. government, academic, research, and private sector organizations designated as Exchange Visitor Program sponsors by the State Department’s Office of Private Sector Exchange in the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs.</p> </div> </div> </div> <h3 class='accordion-toggle'>Important Documents</h3> <div class='accordion-content'> <div class='accordion'> <h3 class='accordion-toggle'><p>How does my organization update information about our State Department-designated exchange visitor program and organization?</p> </h3> <div class='accordion-content' id="43"><p>See the question, “What is the Form DS-3037.”</p> </div> <h3 class='accordion-toggle'><p>What is the Form DS-3036, Exchange Visitor Program Application?</p> </h3> <div class='accordion-content' id="44"><p>Exchange visitor program sponsors use Form DS-3036, “Exchange Visitor Program Application” to apply to the Department of State for re-designation of their current exchange visitor program sponsor status, or apply for an amendment of their current exchange visitor program designation authorization.</p> </div> <h3 class='accordion-toggle'><p>What is the Form DS-3037, Update of Information on Exchange Visitor Program Sponsor?</p> </h3> <div class='accordion-content' id="45"><p>Program sponsors use Form DS-3037, “Update of Information on Exchange Visitor Program Sponsor,” to provide the Department of State with updated sponsor information.</p> </div> </div> </div> <h3 class='accordion-toggle'>SEVIS</h3> <div class='accordion-content'> <div class='accordion'> <h3 class='accordion-toggle'><p>Are there SEVIS User Manuals?</p> </h3> <div class='accordion-content' id="36"><p>Yes. There is a User Manual available to help Responsible Officers (ROs) and Alternate Responsible Officers (AROs) navigate SEVIS. The manual explains in step-by-step detail how to perform procedures in SEVIS.</p> </div> <h3 class='accordion-toggle'><p>Is there a SEVIS Help Desk?</p> </h3> <div class='accordion-content' id="38"><p>Yes. To obtain help with SEVIS technical issues only (e.g., batch processing, password resets, system operation), contact the SEVIS Help Desk at 800 892 4829 between 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday.  For more information, visit the <a target="_blank" title="" href="http://www.ice.gov/sevis/contact.htm">SEVIS website</a>.</p> </div> <h3 class='accordion-toggle'><p>Is there online help with SEVIS questions?</p> </h3> <div class='accordion-content' id="37"><p>Yes. Once SEVIS is accessed each page contains a help icon.  The online help feature contains the same information available in the User Manual.</p> </div> <h3 class='accordion-toggle'><p>What is the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS)?</p> </h3> <div class='accordion-content' id="35"><p>SEVIS is the electronic database developed to collect information on foreign nationals and their accompanying spouse and dependents that enter the United States on the F, M or J visa.</p> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div id="content-3" class='content-piece'> <h2 id="host-families-employers" class='tab'>Host Families/Employers</h2> <div class='accordion questions-accordion'> <h3 class='accordion-toggle'>Basics</h3> <div class='accordion-content'> <div class='accordion'> <h3 class='accordion-toggle'><p>Who should I contact in case I have a problem or concern about a participant?</p> </h3> <div class='accordion-content' id="28"><p>All questions and concerns should be addressed to the sponsoring organization <strong>unless they involve the health or safety of a participant</strong>. The Form DS-2019 contains the name and telephone number of the participant’s sponsor. To locate a designated sponsor, please visit the <a href="/participants/how-to-apply/sponsor-search/">list of designated sponsors</a>.</p> <p>I<strong>f the issue involves health or safety, contact the State Department at any time via the hotline 1-866-283-9090 or at <a href="mailto:jvisas@state.gov">jvisas@state.gov</a>.</strong></p> <p> </p> <p> </p> </div> <h3 class='accordion-toggle'><p>Do host families receive compensation?  This depends on the category of exchange.</p> </h3> <div class='accordion-content' id="29"><p>For example, the J-1 Secondary School Student exchange program is a public diplomacy program intended to foster mutual education and trust between foreign students and American host families. As such, monetary payments in return for being a host family would run counter to the intention of the program and are prohibited by the regulations [22 CFR Section 62.25(d)(6)].  Other categories of exchange sometimes assist participants in locating or arranging housing for a fee. Or place participants in private homes as part of their exchange program.</p> </div> <h3 class='accordion-toggle'><p>How can I find an employee through an Exchange Visitor Program?</p> </h3> <div class='accordion-content' id="13"><p>Contact a designated sponsor to learn how to find a temporary employee under the Exchange Visitor Program. Please visit the <a href="/participants/how-to-apply/sponsor-search/">list of designated sponsors</a>.</p> </div> <h3 class='accordion-toggle'><p>What is the role and responsibility of the State Department’s Office of Private Sector Exchange?</p> </h3> <div class='accordion-content' id="30"><p>The goal of the Exchange Visitor Program is to promote international exchanges and the U.S. government’s public diplomacy efforts. The State Department’s Office of Private Sector Exchange in the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs is responsible for designating organizations as sponsors to conduct exchange programs, assisting sponsor with the administration of their exchange program, and monitoring them to ensure compliance with the governing regulations and laws. </p> </div> </div> </div> <h3 class='accordion-toggle'>My Sponsor</h3> <div class='accordion-content'> <div class='accordion'> <h3 class='accordion-toggle'><p>Do designated sponsors only work in one state?</p> </h3> <div class='accordion-content' id="46"><p>The addresses listed in the <a href="/participants/how-to-apply/sponsor-search/">Designated Sponsors List</a> are the official locations of the designated sponsor organizations. Many sponsors can place participants anywhere in the United States, regardless of their official location. Please consult with the individual sponsor for details.</p> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div>  </div>  </div>  </div> <div id="site-map" class="clearfix"> <ul> <li><a href="https://j1visa.state.gov/basics/" title="View basic information about the Exchange Visitor Visa">Visa Basics</a> <ul> <li><a href="https://j1visa.state.gov/basics/facts-and-figures/" title="View statistics and geographical information about participants and sponsors">Facts & Figures</a></li> <li><a href="https://j1visa.state.gov/basics/j2-visa/" title="Learn about the J-2 Visa">About J-2 Visa</a></li> <li><a href="https://j1visa.state.gov/basics/other-u-s-visas/" title="Learn about other student visa options">Other U.S. Student Visas</a></li> <li><a href="https://j1visa.state.gov/basics/common-questions/" title="View answers to common Exchange Visitor Visa questions">Common Questions</a></li> </ul> </li> <li><a href="https://j1visa.state.gov/participants/" title="View information for Exchange Visitor Visa participants">Participants</a> <ul> <li><a href="https://j1visa.state.gov/participants/how-to-apply/" title="Learn about the application process">How to Apply</a></li> <li><a href="https://j1visa.state.gov/participants/current/" title="Find information for current participants">Current Participants</a></li> <li><a href="https://j1visa.state.gov/participants/experiences/" title="Hear stories from past participants">Participant Experiences</a></li> <li><a href="https://j1visa.state.gov/participants/common-questions/" title="View answers to common questions from current and prospective participants">Common Questions for Participants</a></li>  <li><a href="https://j1visa.state.gov/participants/videos/" title="Watch our Exchange Visitor Visa related videos">Videos</a></li> </ul> </li> <li><a href="https://j1visa.state.gov/sponsors/" title="View information for Exchange Visitor Visa sponsors">Program Sponsors</a> <ul> <li><a href="https://j1visa.state.gov/sponsors/become-a-sponsor/" title="Learn how to become a sponsor for participants">Become a Sponsor</a></li> <li><a href="https://j1visa.state.gov/sponsors/current/" title="Find information for current sponsors">Current Sponsors</a></li> <li><a href="https://j1visa.state.gov/sponsors/how-to-administer-a-program/" title="Learn how to administer a program">How to Administer a Program</a></li> <li><a href="https://j1visa.state.gov/sponsors/common-questions/" title="View answers to common Exchange Visitor Visa sponsor questions">Common Questions for Program Sponsors</a></li>  </ul> </li> <li><a href="https://j1visa.state.gov/hosts-and-employers/" title="View information for Exchange Visitor Host Families and Employers">Host Families/Employers</a> <ul> <li><a href="https://j1visa.state.gov/hosts-and-employers/host-families/" title="View information for host families">For Host Families</a></li> <li><a href="https://j1visa.state.gov/hosts-and-employers/employers/" title="View information for employers">For Employers</a></li> <li><a href="https://j1visa.state.gov/hosts-and-employers/schools/" title="View information for schools">For Schools</a></li> <li><a href="https://j1visa.state.gov/hosts-and-employers/common-questions/" title="View answers to common Exchange Visitor Visa questions from host families and employers">Common Questions for Host Families/Employers</a></li>  </ul> </li> <li><a href="https://j1visa.state.gov/programs/" title="View our list of Exchange Visitor programs">Programs</a></li> </ul> <ul id="resources"> <li><span>Resources</span> <ul> <li><a href="/sponsors/current/ro-aro-virtual-training/" target="_blank" title="RO-ARO Virtual Training">RO-ARO Virtual Training</a></li> <li><a href="https://j1visa.state.gov/sponsors/current/sevis/login/" title="Click to information about access to the SEVIS website">SEVIS login</a></li>  <li><a href="/sponsors/current/sevis/" target="_blank" title="SEVIS Manuals">SEVIS Manuals</a></li> <li><a href="https://j1visa.state.gov/sponsors/current/sevis/sevis-training-videos/" target="_blank" title="View SEVIS training videos">SEVIS Training Videos</a></li> <li><a href="https://j1visa.state.gov/participants/how-to-apply/about-ds-2019/" title="Learn more about the DS-2019 form">DS-2019</a></li> <li><a href="https://j1visa.state.gov/sponsors/current/regulations-compliance" title="Learn more about sponsor regulation and compliance">Regulations and Compliance Administration</a></li> <li><a href="https://j1visa.state.gov/contacts/" title="Find contact information for various questions/topics">Contacts</a></li> <li><a href="https://j1visa.state.gov/about-us/" title="Learn more about the U.S. Department of State’s Exchange Visitor Program">About Us</a></li> <li><a href="http://get.adobe.com/reader/" title="Download software to view our PDF documents" target="_blank">Get Adobe Reader</a></li> </ul> </li> </ul> </div> <div id="footer"> <ul class="organization-nav clearfix"> <li><a href="https://www.state.gov/" title="View the Homepage for the U.S. Department of State">U.S. Department of State</a></li>  <li><a href="https://eca.state.gov/" title="View the Homepage for the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs">Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs</a></li> </ul> <ul class="utilities-nav clearfix"> <li><a href="https://foia.state.gov/" title="View information about the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA)">FOIA</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.state.gov/privacy-policy/" title="View the U.S. Department of State privacy policy for this site">Privacy Notice</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.state.gov/copyright-information/#copyright" title="View copyright information related to this site">Copyright Information</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.facebook.com/ExchangeProgramsAtState" class="link-facebook" target="_blank"><span class="with-arrow">Facebook</span></a>   <a href="https://twitter.com/ECAatState" class="link-twitter" target="_blank"><span class="with-arrow">Twitter</span></a>   <a href="https://www.instagram.com/ExchangeOurWorld/" class="link-instagram" target="_blank"><span class="with-arrow">Instagram</span></a>   <a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/exchangesphotos/albums/72177720302257588" class="link-flickr" target="_blank"><span class="with-arrow">Flickr</span></a></li> </ul> </div> </div> <script src="/wp-content/themes/j1visa/js/libs/jquery-1.6.1.min.js"></script> <script src="/wp-content/themes/j1visa/js/global.js"></script> <script src="/wp-content/themes/j1visa/js/libs/jquery.selectbox-0.1.1.min.js"></script> <script type="text/javascript"> var _gaq = _gaq || []; _gaq.push(['_setAccount', 'UA-22661877-1']); _gaq.push(['_trackPageview']); (function() { var ga = document.createElement('script'); ga.type = 'text/javascript'; ga.async = true; ga.src = ('https:' == document.location.protocol ? 'https://ssl' : 'http://www') + '.google-analytics.com/ga.js'; var s = document.getElementsByTagName('script')[0]; s.parentNode.insertBefore(ga, s); })(); </script> <div id="fb-root"></div> <script>(function(d, s, id) { var js, fjs = d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0]; if (d.getElementById(id)) return; js = d.createElement(s); js.id = id; js.src = "//connect.facebook.net/en_US/sdk.js#xfbml=1&version=v2.0"; fjs.parentNode.insertBefore(js, fjs); }(document, "script", "facebook-jssdk"));</script><script>!function(d,s,id){var js,fjs=d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0],p=/^http:/.test(d.location)?"http":"https";if(!d.getElementById(id)){js=d.createElement(s);js.id=id;js.src=p+"://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js";fjs.parentNode.insertBefore(js,fjs);}}(document, "script", "twitter-wjs");</script><script type="text/javascript"> (function() { var po = document.createElement("script"); po.type = "text/javascript"; po.async = true; po.src = "https://apis.google.com/js/platform.js"; var s = document.getElementsByTagName("script")[0]; s.parentNode.insertBefore(po, s); })(); </script><script src="//platform.linkedin.com/in.js" type="text/javascript"> lang: en_US </script> <script> ( function ( body ) { 'use strict'; body.className = body.className.replace( /\btribe-no-js\b/, 'tribe-js' ); } )( document.body ); </script>  <script> /* <![CDATA[ */var tribe_l10n_datatables = {"aria":{"sort_ascending":": activate to sort column ascending","sort_descending":": activate to sort column descending"},"length_menu":"Show _MENU_ entries","empty_table":"No data available in table","info":"Showing _START_ to _END_ of _TOTAL_ entries","info_empty":"Showing 0 to 0 of 0 entries","info_filtered":"(filtered from _MAX_ total entries)","zero_records":"No matching records found","search":"Search:","all_selected_text":"All items on this page were selected. ","select_all_link":"Select all pages","clear_selection":"Clear Selection.","pagination":{"all":"All","next":"Next","previous":"Previous"},"select":{"rows":{"0":"","_":": Selected %d rows","1":": Selected 1 row"}},"datepicker":{"dayNames":["Sunday","Monday","Tuesday","Wednesday","Thursday","Friday","Saturday"],"dayNamesShort":["Sun","Mon","Tue","Wed","Thu","Fri","Sat"],"dayNamesMin":["S","M","T","W","T","F","S"],"monthNames":["January","February","March","April","May","June","July","August","September","October","November","December"],"monthNamesShort":["January","February","March","April","May","June","July","August","September","October","November","December"],"monthNamesMin":["Jan","Feb","Mar","Apr","May","Jun","Jul","Aug","Sep","Oct","Nov","Dec"],"nextText":"Next","prevText":"Prev","currentText":"Today","closeText":"Done","today":"Today","clear":"Clear"}};/* ]]> */ </script><script type='text/javascript' id='wpmm_js-js-extra'> /* <![CDATA[ */ var ajax_objects = {"ajaxurl":"https:\/\/j1visa.state.gov\/wp-admin\/admin-ajax.php","redirecturl":"https:\/\/j1visa.state.gov\/","loadingmessage":"Sending user info, please wait..."}; var wpmm_object = {"ajax_url":"https:\/\/j1visa.state.gov\/wp-admin\/admin-ajax.php","wpmm_responsive_breakpoint":"767px","wpmm_disable_mobile":"false"}; /* ]]> */ </script> <script type='text/javascript' src='https://j1visa.state.gov/wp-content/plugins/wp-megamenu/assets/js/wpmm.js?ver=1.4.2' id='wpmm_js-js'></script> </body> </html>