J Regulations for Beginners

Audience: International student advisers working with an existing J-1 program.

This workshop is designed for beginners (up to 15 months). It provides basic information related to the administration of J-1 (exchange visitor) programs and advising J-1 students and scholars. It will provide an overview of U.S. Department of State regulations and cover J eligibility, maintenance of status, extension, transfer, reinstatement and employment. We will NOT provide advanced training or cover requirements specific to trainee, high school, or graduate medical study categories. We also will NOT cover the procedure of obtaining an exchange visitor program designation. Participants should be prepared to take active part in discussions.

Workshop Objectives

• Understand different levels of authority and reliability to J visa regulations
• Understand the difference between J visa type and other visa types
• Understand the eligibility requirements for Exchange Visitor status and identify which category to use
• Understand how to enter a new Exchange Visitor in SEVIS, issue the form DS-2019 and report the arrival of the Exchange Visitor
• Understand key concepts of the immigration system, basic terms and visa application procedures
• Understand the requirements to maintain J status and the responsibilities of the sponsor
• Understand what types of employment are allowed for each category and how to make a preliminary determination
• Understand the administrative requirements of an Exchange Visitor program