|
|
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
Getting a J-1 Visa |
||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
A J-1 Visa is permission given by the United States consular officer in your
home country for you to enter the United States to perform specific activities. You cannot get a visa to enter the United States if you are already in the United States. For this reason,
your DS-2019 form cannot be sent to a United States address. A visa is a legal document which shows that the United States consular officer has determined that you have the proper
background and sponsorship to enter the United States. If the Consular Officer cannot verify your background, you will be denied the visa. For this reason, J-1 Visas are issued in your
country of legal residence. In the last few years, it has become increasingly difficult to obtain the J-1 Visa elsewhere.
Here’s what you must do to get the J-1 Visa:
• First, contact the United States consulate to find out
what documents you will need in addition to the J-1 Visa. Ask if you need an appointment before going to the consulate.
• Be aware that there may be fees charged by the United
States government for the visa.
• Having an DS-2019 form does not guarantee that you will be
issued a visa. The DS-2019 form is certification that you have an official sponsor to enter the USA.
You have the responsibility to prove to the consular officer that
you are going to leave the United States within the time period stipulated by the visa.
Section 214 (b) of the Immigration and Nationality Act states:
“Every alien shall be presumed to be an immigrant until he establishes to the
satisfaction of the consular officer, at the time of application for a visa, and the immigration officers, at the time of application for admission, that he is entitled to a nonimmigrant
status…” • During the brief interview and review of your visa application and supporting documents, you must show that you have a permanent residence and other ties in your home country that would compel you to leave the USA at the end of your temporary stay. Such evidence might include:
Each person’s situation is different and consular officers examine the long-range plans and
prospects you have within your country of residence. |
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||
