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    The J-1 visa is available to students, scholars, experts, interns, teachers and professors, industrial and business trainees, and others to come to the United States and gain experience, education or research in their field of study or business.  The duration of stay will vary depending on the program.  The J-1 holders spouse and children under 21 can also enter the U.S. with the J-1 visa holder under the J-2 visa.  J-1 and J-2 visa holders can work in the U.S. under certain circumstances. 

    In order to obtain a J-1 visa, an applicant must obtain a certificate of eligibility from a sponsor of an Exchange-Visitor Program, designated by the State Department and must file an application with a U.S. consulate.  At the time of obtaining the J-1 visa, the applicant must intend to return to his or her home country at the end of the program. 

    It is possible for a J-1 visa holder to change status to another visa category, or to change status from another visa category to the J-1 visa.  It may also be possible to adjust status from the J-1 visa to become a lawful permanent resident.  In some cases, a J-1 visa holder must return to his or her home country for 2 years before reentering the U.S. under the H or L visa or applying for permanent residence.  There are waivers available for this requirement in some instances. However, this is an important consideration in determining whether the J-1 visa is appropriate in a given situation.

    If you would like to obtain a J-1 visa, change status to or from the J-1 visa category, adjust status from a J-1 visa to become a lawful permanent resident , or if you have questions or issues related to the J-1 visa, please call Shorstein & Lasnetski at 904-642-3332. 

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