can you get a j1 visa without a sponsor

As per the USCIS

regulations, the J1-visa holder can work only for the sponsor employer. However, in some cases, if the individual meets the eligibility criteria for the category for which they are applying, then they are allowed to work for a non-sponsor employer.

Full Answer

Can a J-1 visa holder work for a non-sponsor?

Generally, J-1 visa holders are required to work only for their program sponsors. However, in some cases J-1 holders may work for non-sponsor employers if they meet certain eligibility requirements. The requirements vary depending on the program.

What are the duties of a sponsor for a J1 visa?

Some of the duties of the sponsor include ensuring that the position satisfies all conditions for the J1 visa program, hiring foreign nationals, ensuring that both the program and the J1 visa holder uphold their responsibilities for the program, and updating the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVIS) if there are any changes in the program.

How to apply for a J1 visa for exchange visitors?

When applying for a J1 visa, you will need to submit the following documents to the U.S. Embassy or Consulate: DS-2019 Form, Certificate of Eligibility for Exchange Visitor Status DS-7002 Form, A Training/Internship Placement Plan (for exchange visitor trainees or intern visa applicants) Form DS-160, Online Nonimmigrant Visa Electronic Application

Can a J-1 visa holder start a second internship at another company?

A J-1 visa is always bound to a specific internship and thus to a company for a certain period of time. Therefore, you can not start a second internship with another J-1 visa at another company.

Do you need a sponsor for a J-1 visa?

You can find everything you need to know about this program here. Because the EVP is meant for cultural exchange, rather than as a path to citizenship, participants must secure themselves a J-1 visa before visiting. Having a sponsor is a requirement of this visa.

Can I apply for a J-1 visa myself?

When applying for a J1 visa, you will need to submit the following documents to the U.S. Embassy or Consulate: DS-2019 Form, Certificate of Eligibility for Exchange Visitor Status. DS-7002 Form, A Training/Internship Placement Plan (for exchange visitor trainees or intern visa applicants)

How do I get a sponsor for J-1 visa?

Find Designated Sponsor OrganizationsAu Pair.Camp Counselor.College and University Student.Government Visitor.Intern.International Visitor.Physician.Professor.More items...

Who qualifies for J-1 visa?

In order to qualify for a J-1 exchange visitor visa, you need to be coming to the U.S. as a student, scholar, trainee, intern, au pair, teacher, professor, research assistant, medical graduate, or international visitor.

Does J-1 visa gets rejected?

If you have visited the United States before and there were criminal charges levied against you during your visit, or you overstayed your visa for more than 180 days, your J-1 visa application will most likely be denied.

How fast can I get a J-1 visa?

Although visa processing time is typically fifteen (15) business days, processing time for specific cases may vary due to individual circumstances and other special requirements.

How much does J-1 sponsorship cost?

Fees for New J-1 ApplicationsJ-1 sponsorship fee – 15 business days$2,110Required SEVIS fee (effective June 24, 2019)$220Expedited processing – 5 business days (optional)$800J-2 dependent sponsorship for accompanying family members (if applicable)$750

How much is J-1 visa fee?

J-1 Visa Application Fee The $160 visa application processing fee is not unique to the J-1 or J-2 visa. Almost everyone who applies for a non-petition-based nonimmigrant visa has to pay this fee.

How much is a J-1 visa for America?

The current J1 Visa fee for a J1 Visa is $160. The fee is subject to change, however, as with the F1 Visa, you will need to pay one of those pesky SEVIS charges. SEVIS stands for Student and Exchange Visitor Programme, and the SEVIS charge stands at $180, no one said getting a visa was cheap.

Can a friend sponsor J-1 visa?

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA FOR THE J-1 VISA. You are eligible for the J-1 visa if at least 51% of your total funding is from a source other than personal, family, or friends.

How long does J-1 visa take after interview?

Please see “Administrative Processing” for further information. If you were advised at the interview that a waiver of ineligibility is required before the visa can be issued, you can expect your application to take up to 8 months to process from the date of the interview.

Step 1. Find A J Sponsor

When applying for a J1 visa, you will need to find a designated sponsor to accept you into their program. Regardless of their physical location, ma...

Step 2. Apply For The DS-2019

Once you have applied and been approved by a designated sponsor organization, the next step is to submit the DS-2019 Form, also known as the “Certi...

Step 3. Pay Your Fees

You will be required to pay a SEVIS I-901 fee to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) as part of your J-1 visa application - or this fee may a...

Step 4. Interview With A U.S. Embassy Or Consulate

In order to have your J-1 visa application accepted, you will need to have final approval by a consular officer at a US embassy or consulate. Depen...

How to get a J-1 visa?

In order to have your J-1 visa application accepted, you will need to have final approval by a consular officer at a US embassy or consulate. Depending on where you are located, waiting times to get an appointment can vary so it’s important to schedule early to ensure that you have sufficient time before your program begins.

How to apply for a J1 visa?

When applying for a J1 visa, you will need to submit the following documents to the U.S. Embassy or Consulate: 1 DS-2019 Form, Certificate of Eligibility for Exchange Visitor Status 2 DS-7002 Form, A Training/Internship Placement Plan (for exchange visitor trainees or intern visa applicants) 3 Form DS-160, Online Nonimmigrant Visa Electronic Application 4 A passport valid for travel to the U.S with validity six months after the intended period of stay in the US 5 One 2x2 photograph

How much is the nonimmigrant visa processing fee?

Another fee you will be required to pay is the Nonimmigrant Visa Application Processing Fee, which is $160 and can be paid by visiting the Department of State’s Fee for Visa Services. Those participants who are part of a program with the U.S. Government, Department of State, U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), or a U.S. Government funded educational and cultural exchange program are exempt from the Nonimmigrant Visa Application Processing Fee as part of their J-1 visa application.

Do I need to get approval for a practical training program?

There is no need for approval from the DOS or the USCIS for a practical training program. Students who are applying for a practical training program must submit an approval letter from an exchange program officer, passport, completed IAP-66, and I-94 forms.

Can a J1 visa holder work for a sponsor?

As per the USCIS regulations, the J1-visa holder can work only for the sponsor employer. However, in some cases, if the individual meets the eligibility criteria for the category for which they are applying, then they are allowed to work for a non-sponsor employer.

What is a J1 visa?

The J1 visa is a great option for people who want to visit the United States. This visa allows you to gain experience by receiving on-the-job training, teaching, or conducting research. The J1 visa allows foreign nationals to visit the United States to participate in programs performing as:

How many programs are there under the J1 visa?

There are 15 unique programs under the J1 visa.

What do you need to show for a J1 visa?

All J1 and J2 visa applicants must show that they intend to return to their home country. Evidence to demonstrate nonimmigrant intent can include property deeds, mortgages, lease agreements, documentation of continued enrollment in school, documentation of future employment offers, or other indications of family or community ties.

How long do you have to stay in the US after J1?

Some J1 participants and their dependents are required to return to their home country for two years after completing their program. Both the participant and their dependents may be subject to this requirement. Additionally, those seeking new visa status may be subject to this requirement. Please note that you can ask for a waiver of this two-year requirement. Here, significant negative impact can be demonstrated. Alternatively, you can show that you would face persecution as a result of this requirement. An immigration lawyer can help you determine if you are subject to the two-year home residence requirement and/or qualify for a waiver.

What does a sponsor do?

A sponsor approves a program and oversees the foreign national working in the position. A sponsor often does not work directly with the foreign national. Oftentimes, a host organization or other third party does this. However, the sponsor is accountable for the third party and assuring the program’s success. Some of the duties of the sponsor include ensuring that the position satisfies all conditions for the J1 visa program, hiring foreign nationals, ensuring that both the program and the J1 visa holder uphold their responsibilities for the program, and updating the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVIS) if there are any changes in the program.

What is a J1?

The J1 allows foreign nationals to gain experience. You can work in a wide range of fields. The J1 provides an opportunity for foreign nationals to improve their English. You can also learn about American culture and learn relevant career skills.

How long does it take to get a J1 visa?

J1 processing time depends on many factors. This includes which host organization is used, consulate processing times, and the time of year you apply. An immigration lawyer with knowledge about your specific situation can provide more information.

Who Can be a J1 Visa Sponsor?

Sponsor organizations are appointed by the Secretary of State. They can be any of the following entities:

What is the requirement to sponsor a J1 visa?

To be eligible as a J1 visa sponsor, an agency must demonstrate its capability to comply and remain compliant with the Exchange Visitor Program regulations , as mentioned in 22 CFR Part 62.

What are the Requirements to be a J1 Visa Sponsor?

But they must meet certain requirements before they can become one. They have to meet two main requirements. Those are:

What does an agency need to demonstrate to sponsor a visitor program?

The agency should demonstrate that they’re legally capable of satisfying the obligations demanded by a visitor program. Each program varies, and you need to look into the specific program for the exact numbers. After an agency successfully becomes a sponsor, they will administer an exchange program.

What is a J1 sponsor?

J1 Visa sponsor is an independent organization which sponsors the above group of people for the J1 Visa. Then, they can work for a specific company or organization. Today, they handle over 500,000 J1 visa holders who come in from over 200 countries.

How many exchange visitors do you need to sponsor a J1 visa?

To remain eligible as a J1 Visa sponsor, you must successfully administer at least five exchange visitors annually. Federal agencies are an exception to this.

What is J1 administrator?

After an organization or agency has been approved as a J1 visa administrator, they’ll be responsible for a whole lot of things. Generally, an agency will be tasked to carry out a specific category of an exchange program. Take the example of the American Immigration Council.

What is a J1 visa?

The J-1 visa in the United States is for people who wish to take part in work-and-study-based exchange and visitor programs in the U.S. These programs are sponsored by an educational or other nonprofit institution, which must be accredited through the Exchange Visitor Program designated by the U.S. State Department. J-1 exchange visitors come to the United States to teach, study, receive training, or demonstrate special skills. The J1 visa is meant for students who need practical training that is not available to them in their home country, and the training must be directly related to their academic program.

Can foreign students work at summer camps?

Through the Camp Counselor program, foreign post-secondary students and youth workers are able to work at American summer camps. In order to be eligible for these positions, applicants must:

Why is it important to pick up a J-1 visa?

This is why it is advisable to pick up J-1 visa employment that will give you a learning experience and valuable skills in your field of study.

What is the purpose of J-1?

It is very important to note that the primary purpose of the J-1 program for an international student is to study . The opportunity to work is just to help you gain practical experience and supplement your finance. This is to ensure that your job does not affect your course work.

What is an AT visa?

Academic Training (AT) is another J-1 visa employment opportunity. It is a program designed to give international students practical experience in their field of study. The rules surrounding AT vary from school to school, so be sure to ask the program contact for your school.

Do international students need to take tests?

Some on-campus employment like teaching assistantship might require international students to take some tests for which you will need to prepare.

Can a J-1 Student Work As Volunteer?

However, you must be sure you can distinguish between unpaid labor and volunteering. Volunteering in the U.S. as a foreign national can be complex and has requirements as laid down by the U.S. Department of Labor. Before you work as a volunteer, make sure you are aware of the regulations guiding the specific volunteering role you want to offer to avoid violating labor and immigration laws. Violating these regulations could result in penalties for you and the organization for unauthorized J-1 visa employment.

What happens if your sponsor terminates your exchange program?

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.

How to apply for an exchange visitor visa?

Once you obtain a Form DS-2019 from a Sponsor, you may apply for an exchange visitor visa at the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate 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.

Is an exchange visitor visa valid?

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.

Who sponsors the exchange visitor program?

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.

Do sponsors have to have a plan in place for a natural disaster?

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.

Does the State Department sponsor foreign nationals?

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.

Can an exchange visitor visa be used for exchange?

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.

Does USCIS issue EADs to J-1 exchange visitors?

USCIS does not issue EADs to J-1 exchange visitors.

Can dependents of J-1 exchange visitors work?

Dependents of a J-1 exchange visitor are classified as J-2 nonimmigrants and are only authorized to work if we have issued an EAD to them. A J-2 nonimmigrant’s foreign passport and Form I-94 are not evidence of identity and employment authorization for Form I-9 purposes.

How many years of experience do you need to get a J-1 visa?

Alternatively, a J-1 trainee visa is also possible if you have at least 5 years of professional experience in the same field. In general, an age limit of 35 years applies. Additionally, the internship must be directly related to your academic/professional career.

What is the J-1 program?

The J-1 program provides participants and Americans with the opportunity to exchange ideas, opinions, and share experiences to promote relationships between the U.S. citizens and people from other nationalities and cultures. The intercultural component during the stay gives participants the opportunity to experience American culture and interact with society outside of their internship while sharing their own culture with U.S. citizens. This promotes respectful collaborations with diverse cultures and the opportunity to discover difference and similarities.

What happens if your visa is rejected?

If your visa is rejected by the US Embassy, you can recover part of the visa costs, however, some restrictions and condition apply. For further information, please refer to our price list, which is available for download after your free registration in your online account.

How to apply for DS-2019?

In order to apply for a DS-2019 you need an internship offer first , which is checked according to strict criteria. If the internship offer is well received, approved, and all further program points are fulfilled, the DS-2019 is issued. Only after this can you apply for a J-1 visa at the U.S. Embassy.

How much does a consulate charge for a visa?

The U.S. Consulates charge a consular fee for each visa processing. The current fee is $160.00 USD and is due before the interview. This consulate fee is non-refundable.

How long does it take to get a visa?

From our experience, it takes about 8-10 weeks to apply for a visa.

Where to make an appointment for a visa?

Please make an appointment with the consulate, preferably in your home country or country of legal residency.