J-1 Visa, Category "Intern" and "Trainee"

A J-1 visa is a non-immigrant visa issued by the United States to exchange visitors participating in programs that promote cultural exchange. Applicants must meet eligibility criteria and be sponsored either by a private sector or government program.

Internship programs are designed to allow foreign college and university students or recent graduates to come to the United States to gain exposure to U.S. culture and to receive hands-on experience in the U.S. in their chosen academic field.

Requirements
• To be currently enrolled in and pursuing studies at a foreign post-secondary academic institution outside the United States
OR
• To be graduated from such an institution no more than 12 months prior to their exchange visitor program start date.

Maximum duration: 12 months

Training programs are designed to allow foreign professionals to come to the United States to gain exposure to U.S. culture and to receive training in the U.S. in their chosen occupational field.

Requirements
• To have a degree or professional certificate from a foreign post-secondary academic institution AND at least one year of prior related work experience in his or her occupational field OUTSIDE THE UNITED STATES
OR
• To Have five years of work experience OUTSIDE THE UNITED STATES in the occupational field in which they are seeking training

Maximum duration: 18 months except for the field of Hospitality where the maximum stay is 12 months

The purpose of the J-1 Visa Program for trainees is to provide international participants with opportunities for professional development, insight into American know-how in the field of training, and a greater understanding of American society and culture. J-1 Trainees are expected to share the cross-cultural and professional knowledge they have gained in the U.S. upon return to their home country at the end of the training. The J-1 Program is also intended to allow Americans to learn about the culture and expertise of the participant's home country.

Using the J-1 Visa Program to immigrate into the U.S. and/or to fill the position of a regular staff member is strictly prohibited by U.S. Department of State regulations.