J-1 · DS-2019 · SEVIS · DS-160
The J-1 is for people approved to take part in an exchange program, such as an intern, trainee, au pair, teacher, researcher or summer work traveler.
Core facts, form edition dates, fees and recent notices were checked against the official pages listed below on October 25, 2026. Sections marked 'Our guidance' are our own advice, not official text. Some official pages show older 'last updated' dates.
Step 1 of 8
Exchange visitor (J) visas are nonimmigrant visas for people approved to take part in exchange visitor programs in the U.S. The State Department says you cannot use the Visa Waiver Program or a B-1/B-2 visitor visa to take part in an exchange program. A program sponsor approved by the government enters your information in SEVIS and gives you Form DS-2019, the Certificate of Eligibility. You then apply for the visa.
As listed by the State Department on October 25, 2026.
| Program | Visa | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Au pair and EduCare | J-1 | Childcare exchange. |
| Camp counselor | J-1 | Summer camp work. |
| Intern and trainee | J-1 | Also need Form DS-7002. |
| Professor and research scholar, short-term scholar, specialist | J-1 | Academic and research exchange. |
| Student (college or university) and secondary school student | J-1 | Exchange students. |
| Summer Work Travel, teacher, physician, government visitor | J-1 | Each has its own sponsor rules. |
Step 2 of 8
Step 3 of 8
Fees were checked on October 25, 2026 on the official pages. Always use the current information from the official page.
Issued by your program sponsor.
You will usually need
Tip: Bring the signed original to the interview. Each family member gets their own DS-2019.
Pays for the SEVIS record.
Fee: $220 for J applicants, $35 for special J categories (ICE)
You will usually need
Tip: Keep proof of payment.
Completed by the applicant.
Fee: $185 application fee. Some government-sponsored programs are exempt (State Department)
You will usually need
Tip: Print the confirmation page for your interview.
Step 4 of 8
Step 5 of 8
Government fees as published by the agencies, checked on Oct 25, 2026. Fees change, so confirm on the official page before you pay. These are not Move to America's prices.
| Form | What it is for | Fee | Timing |
|---|---|---|---|
| SEVIS I-901 | SEVIS fee for J applicantsSpecial J categories pay $35. Government visitors pay $0. | $220 | Not currently verified |
| DS-160 | Exchange visitor visa application feeNon-refundable. U.S. government-sponsored programs with serial numbers beginning G-1, G-2, G-3 or G-7 are exempt. | $185 | Not currently verified |
Source: ICE and Travel.State.Gov
Visa appointment wait times depend on the embassy or consulate. We do not have verified wait times, so we show none. Check your embassy's website.
Not currently verified
Step 6 of 8
Our guidance, not official text
No. The State Department says Visa Waiver Program travel and B-1/B-2 visas cannot be used for exchange participation.
Yes, as J-2. Each spouse and child receives their own DS-2019.
If it applies, you must return to your home country for two years before you can change or adjust status in the U.S. to permanent residence, or get an immigrant visa or H, L or K visas abroad. A waiver may be requested.
Step 7 of 8
Official notices that may affect exchange visitor visas. Checked on October 25, 2026. Rules change often, so open the source before you act.
Jan 1, 2026 · White House / State Department
A presidential proclamation effective January 1, 2026 suspends entry and visa issuance for nationals of 19 countries in full, and limits visas for nationals of 20 more. Use the lookup in the 'Entry restrictions by nationality' box below to check your nationality. The proclamation lists a small number of exceptions, and its text does not list one for immediate-relative or adoption immigrant visas.
Check whether the January 2026 proclamation affects your nationality.
Travel documents issued or endorsed by the Palestinian Authority are also covered by the full restriction.
Presidential Proclamation 10998, effective 12:01 a.m. EST on January 1, 2026. Source: White House, text of the proclamation · State Department notice. Checked Oct 25, 2026.
Step 8 of 8
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Start your guided application: every requirement is explained step by step, your documents are checked, and you finish with a clear "Ready to file" summary.
The official pages and form instructions are the authority. If this guide differs, follow the official source.
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Move to America is an independent information and preparation service. We are not a government agency, not affiliated with USCIS or the U.S. government, and not a law firm. Nothing here is legal advice, and we cannot guarantee any visa or immigration outcome.