There are several steps to applying for a J-1 visa. The steps may vary depending on the U.S. Consulate or Embassy where you apply. Look for instructions available on the U.S. embassy/consulate websitewhere you will apply. In general, the following steps are required to obtain a J visa.
Pay the visa application fee. Check theU.S. embassy/consulate websitewhere you will apply for instructions on how and whether to pay this fee before the visa interview. Instructions will vary by embassy or consulate.
Generally you will schedule the appointment at the U.S. embassy/consulatein your home country.
Attend your Interview
During your interview
The visa officer will determine your eligibility for the J-1 visa. Some of the things you need to prepare for are:
Be able to provide evidence of non-immigrant intent. For example: demonstrating you have ties to your home country and will return home after your J-1 program is complete.
Be able to provide evidence of sufficient funds to cover living expenses, tuition and health insurance for you and your dependents throughout the length of your program.
Digital fingerprints may be taken. This depends on the U.S. embassy/consulatewhere you will apply.
After your interview
Furtheradministrative processingmay be required. If that is the case, the visa officer will inform you.
If your visa is approved, you will be informed of when your passport with the visa stamp will be returned to you. You may review thevisa processing timeswebsite to learn about typical visa processing times for the location you applied for your visa.
J-2 Dependents
Go through the same or similar visa application process (except they should not pay the SEVIS fee) to obtain a J-2 visa. Review the instructions at the U.S. embassy/consulatewhere they will apply.
Should bring their own documents and copies of the J-1 documents if they apply for their visa separately.
Should also bring proof of the relationship between themselves and the J-1 such as a birth certificate or marriage certificate.
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