J1 Visas

Exchange Program/Trainee Visas to the United States

Applicants who have been invited to an exchange or trainee program in the United States need to obtain a J1 visa.  Typical J applicants include university professors, researchers, post-doctoral fellows and trainees.  Most J visa holders are required to return to their home country for a minimum of two years before applying for a work visa to the U.S.  It is important to remember that there are a number of steps to attend to before an applicant comes to the consulate for an appointment.

1. Qualifying institutions must send a completed form I-20 to the applicant.
2. The SEVIS fee must be paid by the applicant before his case can be heard.  For more about SEVIS, click here.
3. Two passport-sized photograph must be taken.
4. Applicants must complete forms DS-156 and DS-157 before making an appointment.
5. Once all of the above have been completed, an applicant may make an appointment through VFS.  Their website address is:http://www.vfs-usa.co.in

The following documents are required for an interview with an officer:

• Valid Passport
• Completed Form I-20
• Completed Forms DS-156 and DS-157 with approved photograph attached

Applicants may wish to bring the following documentation, as it may assist in the interview process:

• Degree Certificates
• Acceptance letter from the institution in the United States, complete with explanation of program
• Scholarship confirmation letter, if applicable
• SEVIS Fee receipt (especially if the fee was paid recently)
• Consolidated Marks Sheet
• Individual Marks Sheets