Who the J-1 is for
#- Participants in approved exchange visitor programs
- Applicants with sponsorship from an authorized program
- Visitors with documents tied to their exchange category
Program rules to confirm
#J-1 eligibility depends on your program category. Confirm sponsor requirements, SEVIS rules, and any home-residency obligations listed on your DS-2019.
Requirements checklist (high level)
#- DS-2019 issued by your program sponsor
- SEVIS fee payment (when required)
- Completed DS-160 for the visa application
- Consular interview and required documents
Documents and evidence
#Common documents include your passport, DS-2019, DS-160 confirmation, and evidence tied to your exchange program. Requirements vary by consular post.
U.S. documents checklistJ-2 dependent visa overviewReview the DS-160 form guideStep-by-step overview
#- Receive the DS-2019 from your program sponsor.
- Pay the SEVIS fee (if required) and complete the DS-160.
- Schedule and attend a visa interview at a U.S. consulate.
- Travel after visa issuance and follow entry guidance.
Fees (verify before you pay)
#J-1 applicants typically pay the Department of State visa application fee and a SEVIS fee. Always verify current amounts on official sites.
Last verified: 2026-02-02 • Visa fee schedule (Department of State)
Last verified: 2026-02-02 • SEVIS fee information (DHS)
Processing times
#Interview availability varies by consulate. Use the official wait times tool for your location.
Last verified: 2026-02-02 • Visa appointment wait times (Department of State)
Common mistakes that cause delays
#- Applying before receiving the DS-2019
- Missing SEVIS payment confirmation
- Submitting inconsistent DS-160 details
Next steps
#Use Find My Visa to build a sequenced plan with official sources and deadlines.
FAQs
Do I need a DS-2019 for a J-1 visa?
Yes. J-1 applicants need a DS-2019 issued by an authorized program sponsor before applying for the visa.
Where can I check interview wait times?
Use the Department of State’s official wait times tool for the consulate where you will apply.
Is the SEVIS fee required?
Most J-1 applicants must pay the SEVIS fee before the interview. Confirm requirements on the official SEVIS guidance.
Is the two-year home residency requirement possible?
Some J-1 categories trigger a two-year home residency requirement based on funding, skills list, or program type. Check your DS-2019 and visa annotation.
Can J-1 participants bring dependents?
Yes. Spouses and children can apply for J-2 status if the program sponsor issues separate DS-2019 forms.
Sources
Last reviewed: 2026-01-29
VisaMind provides informational guidance only and is not a government agency. This is not legal advice. Requirements can change and eligibility depends on your specific facts. If your case is complex or high-stakes, consult a licensed immigration attorney.
Requirements vary by nationality, purpose, timeline, and case details. VisaMind turns uncertainty into a sequenced checklist with official source citations.
Find my visa