J-1 Visa Exchange Visitor Program

The Exchange Visitor (J) non-immigrant visa category is for individuals approved to participate in work-and study-based exchange visitor programs. According to the U.S. Department of State (DOS), the purpose of the J-1 Exchange Program is to increase mutual understanding between the people of the United States and the people of other countries through educational and cultural exchanges.

The exchange of visiting scholars promotes interchange, mutual enrichment, and linkages between research and educational institutions in U.S. and foreign countries. Participants in this program, identified as "Exchange Visitors" are expected to enter the U.S. with a J-1 Visa.