J-1 Exchange Visitor Visa – Specialists

1. Definition of J-1 Exchange Visitor Specialist. 22 C.F.R. § 62.4 (g).

A J-1 Exchange Specialist is an expert in a field of specialized knowledge or skill who comes to the United States to observe, consult, or demonstrate special skills.

2. Purpose of J-1 Specialist Program. 22 C.F.R. § 62.26 (b).

The J-1 Exchange Visitor Specialist Program promotes the interchange of knowledge and skills among foreign and American specialists. This J-1 program provides foreign specialists the opportunity to observe American institutions and methods of practice in their professional fields, and to share their specialized knowledge with their American colleagues.

The exchange of specialists promotes mutual enrichment, and furthers linkages among scientific institutions, government agencies, museums, corporations, libraries, and similar types of institutions. Such exchanges also enable visitors to better understand American culture and society and enhance American knowledge of foreign cultures and skills.

The J-1 Exchange Visitor Specialist category is intended for exchanges with experts in areas such as: mass media communication, environmental science, youth leadership, international educational exchange, museum exhibitions, labor law, public administration, and library science.

3. Criteria for J-1 Exchange Visitor Specialist. 22 C.F.R. § 62.26 (d).

A foreign national may be eligible to participate in an exchange visitor program as a specialist if the individual:

  • Is an expert in a field of specialized knowledge or skill;
  • Seeks to travel to the United States for the purpose of observing, consulting, or demonstrating his or her special knowledge or skills;
  • Does not fill a permanent or long-term position of employment while in the United States; and
  • Has been accepted by the organization(s) with which he or she will participate in an exchange visitor program.

4. Location of J-1 Specialist Activity. 22 C.F.R. § 62.26 (h).

The J-1 Visitor Specialist may only participate in an exchange visitor program at the location(s) listed on his or her Form DS-2019.

5. Duration of J-1 Specialist Participation. 22 C.F.R. § 62.26 (i).

The J-1 Visitor Specialist may be authorized to participate in the Exchange Visitor Program for the length of time necessary to complete the program, which may not exceed one year.

6. J-1 Specialist Sponsor Obligations. 22 C.F.R. § 62.26 (f).

Before the program begins, the J-1 Sponsor must provide the specialist with:

  • Information on the length and location(s) of his or her exchange visitor program;
  • A summary of the significant components of the program; and
  • A written statement which clearly states the stipend, if any, to be paid to the specialist.

7. Alternatives to the J-1 Exchange Visitor Specialist Category.

The J-1 Exchange Visitor Specialist category should be compared with the H-1B temporary worker category. The exchange visitor category may be a better fit for some due to the often lengthy application and petition process for professionals seeking H-1B classification. However, J-1 visa applicants must be aware of the potential applicability of the two-year home country residence requirement.