A recent Federal court order has been issued, lifting the J-1 Visa ban of June 2020 for new J-1 Internship/Traineeship programs. The recent preliminary injunction was released on October 1, 2020, allowing the issuing of new J-1 visas of diverse categories, including the Internship and Traineeship programs.
Is there an update on the J-1 visa ban?
Washington D. C. (October 16, 2020) – As a designated program sponsor for international exchange opportunities, Cultural Vistas would like to provide our community with an update on the recent visa ban. On June 22, 2020, a Presidential Proclamation prevented the visa issuance for most new J-1 Visa programs for the remainder of 2020.
Are J-1 visas being issued in 2020?
On June 22, 2020, a Presidential Proclamation prevented the visa issuance for most new J-1 Visa programs for the remainder of 2020. This visa ban included H-1B, H-2B and L-1 visa classifications.
What happens if my J-1 visa expires?
If exchange visitors travel outside of the United States during their current programs and after their J-1 visas have expired, they must apply for new J-1 visas in their home countries in order to re-enter the United States to continue their programs.
What are the validity periods of the J1 visa types?
The validity periods of the J1 visa types are included below. Au pair, intern, international visitor, secondary school student, and specialist programs are valid for 12 months. (Au pair program may be extended for an additional 6, 9, or 12 months). Camp counselor and summer work travel programs are valid for 4 months.
Can non-U.S. citizens travel to the United States during the COVID-19 pandemic?
If you are a non-U.S. citizen who is a nonimmigrant (not a U.S. citizen, U.S. national, lawful permanent resident, or traveling to the United States on an immigrant visa), you will need to show proof of being fully vaccinated against COVID-19 before you travel by air to the United States from a foreign country.
What are the requirements for a noncitizen, nonimmigrant, to travel to the United States during the COVID-19 pandemic?
Noncitizens who are nonimmigrants and seeking to enter the United States by air are required to show proof of being fully vaccinated against COVID-19 before boarding a flight to the United States from a foreign country.
Is there an extension for immigration requests during the COVID-19 pandemic?
In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services is extending certain flexibilities through July 25, 2022, to assist applicants, petitioners, and requestors. We anticipate this may be the final extension of these flexibilities.
Can I enter the US without a negative COVID-19 test?
This means that starting at 12:01AM ET on June 12, 2022, air passengers will not need to get tested and show a negative COVID-19 test result or show documentation of recovery from COVID-19 prior to boarding a flight to the United States regardless of vaccination status or citizenship.
Does a non-U.S. citizen need to be vaccinated to enter the US during the COVID-19 pandemic?
If you are a non-U.S. citizen who is a nonimmigrant (not a U.S. citizen, U.S. national, lawful permanent resident, or traveling to the United States on an immigrant visa), you will need to show proof of being fully vaccinated against COVID-19 before you travel by air to the United States from a foreign country.
Is it mandatory to get a COVID-19 vaccine to travel to the US during the COVID-19 pandemic?
The White House announced that vaccines will be required for international travelers coming into the United States, with an effective date of November 8, 2021. For purposes of entry into the United States, vaccines accepted will include FDA approved or authorized and WHO Emergency Use Listing vaccines.
What is the COVID-19 BA.5 subvariant?
BA.5 and BA.4, both subvariants of the Omicron variant that swept the world during the winter, are the most capable versions of the virus yet at evading immunity from previous infections and vaccines.
Do I qualify for an exception or can I apply for an exception to the COVID-19 vaccine requirement?
See full answerCategories of noncitizen, nonimmigrants that meet the criteria for an exception under the proclamation and CDC’s order include: Persons on diplomatic or official foreign government travel Children under 18 years of age Persons with documented medical contraindications to receiving a COVID-19 vaccine Participants in certain COVID-19 vaccine trials Persons issued a humanitarian or emergency exception Persons with valid visas [excluding B-1 (business) or B-2 (tourism) visas] who are citizens of a foreign country with limited COVID-19 vaccine availability. Members of the U.S. Armed Forces or their spouses or children (under 18 years of age). Sea crew members traveling pursuant to a C-1 and D nonimmigrant visa Persons whose entry would be in the national interest, as determined by the Secretary of State, Secretary of Transportation, or Secretary of Homeland Security (or their designees)
Can I still have sex during the coronavirus pandemic?
If both of you are healthy and feeling well, are practicing social distancing and have had no known exposure to anyone with COVID-19, touching, hugging, kissing, and sex are more likely to be safe.
Should I get tested for COVID-19 before traveling to the US?
Before boarding a flight to the United States, consider getting tested for current infection with a viral test as close to the time of departure as possible (no more than 3 days) before travel.
When should you take a COVID-19 PCR test instead of a rapid antigen test?
“PCR would be chosen where there is a low likelihood of having the virus, but we want to be certain the patient doesn't have it. Antigen would be chosen if there is a high probability the patient has the virus (i.e. is experiencing symptoms), and we need to screen the patient as positive or negative,” Heather said.
Do I need to get a proof of being "fully vaccinated" against COVID-19 before I travel by air to the US from a foreign country?
If you are a non-U.S. citizen who is a nonimmigrant (not a U.S. citizen, U.S. national, lawful permanent resident, or traveling to the United States on an immigrant visa), you will need to show proof of being fully vaccinated against COVID-19 before you travel by air to the United States from a foreign country.
Do I need to get a proof of being "fully vaccinated" against COVID-19 before I travel by air to the US from a foreign country?
If you are a non-U.S. citizen who is a nonimmigrant (not a U.S. citizen, U.S. national, lawful permanent resident, or traveling to the United States on an immigrant visa), you will need to show proof of being fully vaccinated against COVID-19 before you travel by air to the United States from a foreign country.
Where can I apply for the humanitarian or emergency exception to travel to the United States?
Individuals who fit the exception criteria described in the Presidential Proclamation and CDCs Amended Order may contact the U.S. embassy or consulate in or nearest the country from which they are departing for the United States. The embassy will then transmit the information to the CDC for consideration.
Should I get tested for COVID-19 before traveling to the US?
Before boarding a flight to the United States, consider getting tested for current infection with a viral test as close to the time of departure as possible (no more than 3 days) before travel.
Can I travel if I am not up-to-date on COVID-19 vaccines and was exposed to COVID-19?
Do not travel until a full 5 days after your last close contact with the person with COVID-19. It is best to avoid travel for a full 10 days after your last exposure.
When will the US extend the 10052 visa?
On December 31, 2020 , President Trump extended Presidential Proclamations 10052 and 10014 through March 31, 2021. For the text of the extension for P.P. 10052 and P.P. 10014, please see https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/proclamation-suspension-entry-immigrants-nonimmigrants-continue-present-risk-united-states-labor-market/. With the extension, P.P. 10052 continues to apply to J-1 visa applicants in the intern, trainee, teacher, camp counselor, au pair, and summer work travel categories of exchange (as well as to applicants for H-1B, H-2B, and L-visas), and any spouses or children of covered applicants applying for H-4, L-2, or J-2 visas. For further information on P.P. 10052, please see https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/News/visas-news/proclamation-suspending-entry-of-immigrants-and-nonimmigrants-who-present-risk-to-the-US-labor-market-during-the-economic-recovery-following-the-COVID-19-outbreak.html.
What countries are exempt from the National Interest?
National Interest Exceptions for Certain Travelers from China, Iran, Brazil, South Africa, Schengen Area, United Kingdom, and Ireland (state.gov) Presidential Proclamation on the Suspension of Entry as Nonimmigrants of Certain Additional Persons Who Pose a Risk of Transmitting Coronavirus Disease 2019.
When does the P.P. 10052 expire?
P.P. 10052 remains in effect and is scheduled to expire on March 31, 2021. P.P. 10052 suspends the entry to the United States of certain nonimmigrant visa applicants who present a risk to the U.S. labor market during the economic recovery following the novel coronavirus outbreak.
Do exchange visitors need national interest exceptions?
Even when exchange visitors’ travel originates in a country that is not subject to a Presidential Proclamation, if the exchange visitors transit through one of thodr 33 countries on the way to the United States, the exchange visitors need National Interest Exceptions. The four Presidential Proclamations that suspend entry into the United States ...
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 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.
How many categories are there in the J1 visa?
There are 15 different categories covered by the J1 visa. Some visas are limited to certain nationalities or specified jobs. This is not true for the unique J1 visa.
What is a J-1 visa?
Let’s start with a brief rundown of the J-1 visa. This nonimmigrant category is for program-based immigration rather than employer-based. A government-approved sponsorship program will provide you with a completed DS-2019 form to be filed with the USCIS.
What to do if you are seeking a change of category related to your J-1 visa extension?
If you are seeking a change of category related to your J-1 visa extension then you must clearly demonstrate that it is closely related to your original exchange objectives and necessary as the result of extraordinary circumstances.
How to request a J-1 visa waiver?
To request a J-1 visa waiver, you will need to file a DS-3035. The form must be completed with relevant information, which includes your SEVIS number, the date you entered the U.S. under J-1 status, and information about your J-2 dependents (if any). You will also need every DS-2019/IAP-66 ever issued to you as well as supporting evidence to prove that you meet the requirements for the waiver. The J-1 visa waiver filing fee is $120.
What is the grace period for J-1?
J-1 Traveling Grace Period. There is a travel grace period which may be important for you to understand. As indicated on DS-2019, there is a grace period that USCIS allows for individuals completing the United States to depart the country.
How to update DS-2019?
You should consult the officer of your program. They’ll then need to submit a request in writing to the DOS on your behalf and corresponding payment (fee) will need to be submitted. Should your request be accepted, the officer will issue an updated DS-2019.
When to extend DS 2019?
Minor rules include the requirements to: Extend your program before the end date stated on your DS-2019 if you need to stay longer than the earlier issued date. Process your program transfer before the end date on your DS-2019. Get the required approval before accepting an honorarium or any other type of payment.
Does DS 2019 expire?
The newly issued DS-2019 will have a new end date and SEVIS will also record the new expiration date. If you have dependents (spouse and/or children) on a J-2 visa, each of your dependents must be issued their own DS-2019.
At a Glance
President Biden has revoked the Trump-era ban on certain immigrant entries, effective immediately. The ban was set to expire on March 31, 2021.
The issue
President Biden has revoked a Trump-era presidential proclamation that suspended the entry of certain immigrants until March 31. The revocation takes effect immediately and consulates are permitted to resume processing affected immigrant visa applications.
Background on immigrant visa ban
The immigrant visa ban affected employment-based, family-based and Diversity Lottery immigrant visas, with limited exceptions for U.S. lawful permanent residents; spouses of U.S. citizens; children under 21 of U.S.
Implementation of ban revocation
Not Yet Interviewed : IV applicants who have not yet been interviewed or scheduled for an interview will have their applications processed according to existing COVID-19 consular operations frameworks, which could mean reduced visa services and prioritization of visa case types, depending on the post.
Regional COVID public health bans may still apply
Regional COVID public health bans remain in place for foreign nationals physically present in Brazil, China, Iran, Ireland, the Schengen Area, South Africa or the United Kingdom within 14 days of attempting entry to the United States. Spouses, children and certain other family members of U.S.
What is next?
Though U.S. consulates are no longer prohibited from issuing immigrant visas based on classification alone, consular operations worldwide remain reduced due to COVID-19 public health measures.
How to get a J1 visa?
To obtain a J1 visa, foreign nationals must apply for and be approved to participate in a J1 visa USA exchange visitor program. There are 14 individual J1 programs within the J1 exchange visitor visa category pertaining to various occupations and functions. This article provides a J1 visa overview of all of the qualifying J1 programs.
What are the requirements for a J1 visa?
J1 visa eligibility and requirements vary depending on the exchange visitor program, but some of the general J1 visa requirements may include: 1 English language proficiency 2 Medical insurance
Can a J1 exchange travel to the US?
Eligible immediate family members may accompany J1 exchange visitors during their stay in the US by obtaining a J-2 visa.
Do you have to be a J1 resident to get a J1 visa?
Some J1 visa USA programs are subject to a home residency requirement, a 2-year home country physical presence. J1 visa participants of the following J1 exchange visitor programs are required to return to their home country at the end of their exchange visitor program under the home residency requirement.
Exchange Visitors
The J-1 classification (exchange visitors) is authorized for those who intend to participate in an approved program for the purpose of teaching, instructing or lecturing, studying, observing, conducting research, consulting, demonstrating special skills, receiving training, or to receive graduate medical education or training.
Application Process
The U.S. Department of State plays the primary role in administering the J-1 exchange visitor program, so the first step in obtaining a J-1 visa is to submit a Form DS-2019, Certificate of Eligibility for Exchange Visitor Status, (formerly known as an IAP-66). Your sponsoring agency will provide you this form.
Employment
Some J-1 nonimmigrants enter the United States specifically to work while others do not. Employment is authorized for J-1 nonimmigrants only under the terms of the exchange program. Please check with your sponsoring agency for more information on any restrictions that may apply to you working in the United States.
Family of J-1 Visa Holders
Your spouse and unmarried children under 21 years of age, regardless of nationality, are entitled to J-2 classification. Your spouse and children are entitled to employment authorization; however, their income may not be used to support you.