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J1/J2 Exchange Visa

Cultural Exchange Visas (J1-J2)

14+Program Categories

J2Work Auth

$160Visa Fee

Program Categories Requirements

General Overview

Your gateway to an American experience rich in knowledge, work, and global networking starts here. The J1–J2 visas are specifically designed to promote cultural and educational exchange between the United States and the rest of the world. These programs offer students, researchers, trainees, and professors the opportunity to participate in temporary experiences within the US. J1 Visa: For primary participants in exchange programs. J2 Visa: For family members (spouse and unmarried children under 21 years of age).

Available Programs

Summer Work Travel

Summer Work Travel

The most popular among university students, combining seasonal work with travel during the summer break.

Camp Counselor

Camp Counselor

Work as a supervisor in American summer camps, combining leadership, fun, and building global friendships.

Trainee

Trainee

Designed for young professionals to gain advanced practical experience in their fields within a U.S. work environment.

Intern

Intern

A practical program for students and recent graduates, offering professional training within American companies and institutions.

College & University Student

College & University Student

Enroll in academic or research courses at U.S. universities, with opportunities to exchange knowledge and engage in campus life.

Secondary School Student

Secondary School Student

Allows younger students to study in American schools and live with host families to experience U.S. culture firsthand.

Research Scholar

Research Scholar

For researchers to participate in scientific or academic projects within U.S. universities and research centers.

Professor

Professor

Provides opportunities for university professors to teach or participate in academic programs in the United States.

Teacher

Teacher

Enables teachers to teach in American schools for a set period, enhancing educational and cultural exchange.

Physician

Physician

For doctors seeking training or participation in advanced medical programs within U.S. hospitals.

Au Pair

Au Pair

Allows young people to live with an American family as household assistants, with opportunities to learn the language and engage in daily life.

International Visitor

International Visitor

A short-term program aimed at fostering mutual understanding between future leaders from different countries and the United States.

Government Visitor

Government Visitor

For government officials or public figures to participate in cultural and political exchange programs.

Specialist

Specialist

A short-term program for experts and specialists to share knowledge and skills in specific fields.

Short-Term Scholar

Short-Term Scholar

For professors and researchers to participate in lectures, workshops, or short-term research projects.

STEM Initiatives

STEM Initiatives

Modern programs focusing on supporting academic and research exchange in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

Why Choose J1-J2 Cultural Exchange Visas?

Educational and professional experience in an advanced American environment.

Authentic cultural exchange that opens doors to new lifestyles.

Temporary training and work opportunities in multiple fields.

The possibility of family accompaniment via the J2 visa.

Building an international network that enhances your academic and professional path.

Application Steps

1

Obtain acceptance from an accredited exchange program.

2

Receive Form DS-2019 from the sponsoring organization.

3

Pay the SEVIS fee.

4

Complete the DS-160 form and pay the visa fee.

5

Schedule an appointment at the US Embassy or Consulate.

6

Attend the personal interview and submit documents.

7

Receive the visa and embark on your American experience.

J2 Dependent Visa

The J2 visa is granted to the spouse and unmarried children under 21 years of age of the J1 primary participant.

Reside in the US throughout the J1 holder's program.

Children may attend school.

May apply for work authorization in some cases (EAD).

May travel in and out of the United States during the program.

Required Documents

DS-160 Visa Application Form confirmation page.

Form DS-2019 from the sponsoring organization.

Payment receipts for the Visa Fee and SEVIS Fee.

Recent personal photos (5x5 cm size, white background).

A letter explaining the purpose of participation.

Supporting documents (university acceptance, training contract, or official invitation).

Two-Year Home Residency Requirement

Some J1 program participants are subject to a two-year home country physical presence requirement, meaning they must return to their home country for at least two years before being able to apply for certain other US visas (such as H, L, or immigrant visas).

Important Notes

Each program has specific requirements that differ from others. Please review the details of each program separately.

Visa Application Fee: USD 185 per applicant (whether J1 for the participant or J2 for the dependent).

SEVIS I-901 Fee: USD 220 for the primary participant (J1). No SEVIS fee is charged for dependents (J2).

Fees may vary or be waived in some programs. Local costs (such as courier services or appointment fees) may also be added.

What Kaya Offers You

Assistance in choosing the most suitable program for your path.

Professional preparation of your academic and professional file.

Follow-up on all application steps until the visa is issued.

Additional support for your family in case of J2 visa application.

Live an unforgettable cultural exchange experience with Kaya — from program acceptance to your arrival in the United States, we are your partner every step of the way.

Live an Unforgettable Cultural Exchange Experience with Kaya

Get the right cultural exchange program with help from our experts

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