what is j1 visa in usa

The J-1 visa is a non-immigrant visa category for individuals approved to participate in work-and study-based exchange visitor programs in the United States. These programs are sponsored by public and private entities designated by the U.S. Department of State to promote the interchange of persons, knowledge, and skills in the fields of education, arts, and science. The J-1 visa has 15 categories of eligible roles and/or program types, including college and university students, secondary school students, teachers, specialists, au pairs, and camp counselors. To obtain a J-1 visa, the first step is to apply for and be accepted into an exchange visitor program through a designated sponsoring organization in the United States. After being admitted to the United States by U.S. Customs and Border Protection officials in visitor (B) visa status, applicants must separately apply to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services for a change of status to exchange visitor (J) status prior to the start of their exchange program. J-1 visa holders are required to return to their home country after graduation and live there for at least two years before returning to the US, unless the requirement is waived due to emergency or special circumstances.