Characteristics of the J-1 visa for Researchers and Professors:

1. J-1 visa holders in the Research Scholar or Professor category may remain in the United States for up to five years on an Exchange Visitor visa. There are some restrictions to this category. Individuals who have been in the United States as J-1 Exchange Visitors in any category for more than 6 months are not eligible for the Research Scholar or Professor category unless they have been outside the United States for the previous 12 months. Research scholars and/or professors who complete their J-1 programs and leave the United States are not eligible to return as J-1 research scholars or professors for 24 months.
2. In some cases, the J-1 visa carries with it a "two-year home country residence requirement" that obligates the Exchange Visitor to return to his or her home country for two years before being eligible to apply for an immigrant visa or a non-immigrant H or L visa. This restriction applies to those financially supported by the U.S. government (e.g. Fulbright grantees) or by their own governments (including travel grants) during part or all of their stay in the U.S in J status. In addition, the two-year home country residence requirement is imposed on those whose skills are needed in the home country, as registered on the Exchange Visitor Skills List Go Here. This requirement also applies to all foreign medical graduates who enter the U.S. to undertake internships, residencies, or clinical training programs under the J-1 sponsorship of ECFMG. Under certain circumstances, it is possible to obtain a waiver of the two-year home country residence requirement.
3. Employment for J-1 Exchange Visitor scholars is permitted only if it is an integral part of the program as described on the Form DS-2019 issued to the Exchange Visitor, e.g. teaching and/or research activities within an academic department. It is possible for J-1 scholars to accept occasional lecture or consultation opportunities and be reimbursed for expenses. However, if the occasional lecture or consultation involves compensation for services, then the foreign scholar must obtain written permission in advance from the organization that issued the Form DS-2019. It is very important for the scholar to speak with an advisor at the HIO before participating in this type of outside activity.
4. The spouse and children of a J-1 visa holder hold J-2 status and may apply to the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) for permission to work in the U.S. The HIO is able to assist with these applications.