How can you extend the duration of your Exchange Visa? The responsible officer has…
How can you extend the duration of your Exchange Visa?
The responsible officer has the authority to extend a participant’s program to the end of its regulatory period, that is, to the time limit imposed by regulations specific to a program type or to the designation of a program sponsor.
A new Form DS-2019 is issued to the participant to represent the extension.
Extensions beyond the full duration of the program are approved under some program types, with the approval of the Department of State, in exceptional or rare circumstances.
To receive approval for such extensions, the responsible officer must send an electronic request outlining the petition and providing supporting documents on behalf of the participant to the Department of State.
What documents are required for the interview for an Exchange Visa?
A valid passport, the printed DS-160 Form, the SEVIS i-901 fee, the insurance fee, the application fee receipt, a 2×2 photo of yourself, the DS-2019 Form, and the DS-7002 Form, depending on which program you applied for, are all required documents to apply for J Visas at the embassy/consulate.
Keep in mind that you’ll also need the I-94 document and your birth/marriage certificate if you’re applying for a J2 Visa.
What are the J2 Visa’s BENEFITS?
Many benefits are available to J2 Visa holders that are not available to other dependent Visa holders.
They can join their J1 Visa holder in their exchange program in the United States, in addition to accompanying their spouse or parent.
They are also permitted to study and work in the United States as long as their J1 Visa holder is present!
What is the number of Exchange Visitor Visa holders in the United States?
Every year, about 300,000 foreign tourists from 200 countries and territories visit the United States through the J1 Exchange Visitor Program. California hosts the most exchange visitors (35,000), followed by New York (30,000) and Florida (30,000). (15,000). China (40,000), the United Kingdom (20,000), and Germany (40,000) are the countries with the most J1 Visa holders (19,000).
Is it possible for you to apply for a J2 Visa?
The specific exchange program provided by a sponsor organization to the J-1 non-immigrant determines eligibility for a J-2 Visa.
The au pair, camp counselor, secondary school student, and summer work travel exchange categories do not allow J-2 Visas.
Furthermore, while some categories allow a J-1 Visa holder to bring their spouses and/or dependents with them, others do not.
What Are the J1 Visa’s Additional Requirements?
Even if you submit all of the required documents to the embassy/consulate, they may request additional documentation.
They primarily ask for evidence of the following:
the reason for your trip to the United States,
the purpose of your departure from the United States after your trip,
and financial proof that you can cover the entire cost of your trip for Exchange Visitor Visa applicants.
How do you get through the J1 Visa interview?
Before you go in for your J1 Visa interview, there are a few things you should keep in mind.
To pass this interview, keep your answers short and sweet, have your documents in order, tell them about your plans to return to your home country (even if you plan to stay in the US), explain the specific reasons why you want to come to America, and answer everything with a smile!
Why is there such a high number of J1/J2 applicants?
The United States is a fascinatingly diverse country that provides many opportunities for international students to study, trainees to find work, and everyone to participate in exchange programs.
It’s no surprise that there are a large number of J1/J2 Visa applicants each year, and that the number continues to rise!
