This article will help you understand the requirements for a J1 visa. You’ll learn what criteria you need to meet, what documents you submit, and how to obtain the SEVIS fee receipt. In addition, you’ll learn how to complete an I-901 form. By the end of this article, you’ll have all the information needed to start the application process.
Table of Contents
Criteria
The criteria for applying for a J1 Visa are straightforward, but specific details need to be considered before you can move forward with the application process. First of all, if you are a J-1 visa holder, you must indicate that you intend to return home after the period of your stay has ended. Then, after you receive your visa, you can begin working for the sponsoring program without submitting additional employment authorization documents. Nevertheless, it is essential to note that you are only allowed to work in the program and not outside of it.
There are several types of J-1 visas. These include trainees, interns, students, professors, au pairs, and doctors. To apply for your j-1 visa, you must be a part of a specific training program funded by a U.S. university or research organization. You must also have sufficient funds to cover the costs of your stay in the United states, such as lodging, food, and transportation.
Home-Country Residence Requirement
The two-year home-country residency requirement for a J1 Visa cannot be waived, even if you have met all three other requirements. However, it is essential to note that this requirement is not the same as the two-year residency requirement included in your passport or DS-2019 form. The U.S. Department of state has detailed instructions on requesting an advisory opinion to review your application.
If you are a student, you must fulfill the home-country residence requirement for a J1 visa. However, if you are a graduate student or research associate, you may be able to meet the two-year residence requirement if you receive funds from a government agency. If unsure, talk to your program officer about this requirement. You may meet both home-country residency requirements.
SEVIS Fee Payment Receipt
When applying for a J1 Visa, you must submit your SEVIS fee payment receipt. This fee is $220 and must be paid before you can enter the U.S. to study in a program. It should also be submitted three business days before the scheduled visa interview. In addition, a SEVIS fee payment receipt will be helpful if you plan to attend the interview in person. To make sure your receipt is valid, print it out.
When you pay the SEVIS fee, keep the receipt with your DS-2019. It must match the SEVIS ID number on your current F-1 I-20 or J-1 DS-2019. You will need this receipt to present when applying for a J1 visa and at the port of entry when entering the U.S. Make two copies of your receipt and keep them with other important immigration documents. Most students pay their fees online using a credit card, but certain countries require you to pay with a bank wire or mail.
I-901 Form
Before you can begin applying for a J-1 visa, you must complete SEVIS Form DS-2019. You must also bring items six through eleven of Step 4, which are listed in the following paragraph. In addition, you must have your Arrival/Departure Record (USCIS Form I-94).
The fee for the SEVIS I-901 form to apply for a j1 visa is $350 for F-1 students and $220 for J1 exchange visitors. Before submitting your application to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, this fee is due. As a Canadian citizen, you must pay the fee before entering the United states. Therefore, paying the price in full to apply for a J-1 visa is essential.
Application Process
An applicant can apply for a J1 visa by submitting a PDF copy of his passport. This document should be valid for the duration of his J1 visa program. The applicant should also provide proof of his ties with his home country. The interview is generally about ten to fifteen minutes, and you should be ready to answer several questions. Then, the visa officer will decide if your application should be approved or rejected.
Before applying for a J-1 visa, ensure you understand your trip’s requirements. While J-1 access will grant you entry into the United states, it does not guarantee you will be accepted. If border patrol officers believe you are not a US citizen, you may be turned away. You must present your passport and your completed DS-2019 form at the border. You will also need to submit a receipt for your SEVIS fee payment.
