what is a j1 visa

A J-1 visa is a non-immigrant visa issued by the United States to research scholars, professors, and exchange visitors participating in programs that promote cultural exchange, especially to obtain medical or business training within the U.S. . The Exchange Visitor (J) non-immigrant visa category is for individuals approved to participate in work-and study-based exchange visitor programs in the United States. The J-1 visa has 15 categories of eligible roles and/or program types, including Au Pair, Camp Counselor, College and University Student, Secondary School Student, and more. J-1 non-immigrants are sponsored by an exchange program that is designated as such by the U.S. Department of State. These programs are designed to promote the interchange of persons, knowledge, and skills, in the fields of education, arts, and science. The J-1 visa program is meant to foster cultural and intellectual exchange between countries.