Overview of the BridgeUSA Program (J-1 Visa for Interns & Trainees)
International educational and cultural exchanges are one of the most effective means of obtaining invaluable professional development experience while also developing lasting and meaningful relationships. They provide an extremely unique opportunity to experience the United States and American culture. The BriegeUSA program provides foreign nationals the ability to come to the United States to participate in a wide variety of educational and cultural exchange programs.
The Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) provides the exchange visitor (J) nonimmigrant visa category for persons who are approved to participate in exchange visitor programs in the United States. This means that before you can apply at an American embassy or consulate for a J visa, you must apply, meet the requirements, and be accepted for one of the Exchange Visitor Program categories through a designated sponsoring organization. If you are accepted as a participant in an exchange program, the sponsor will provide you with information and documents necessary to apply for the J visa to enter the United States.
Form DS-2019 (Certificate of Eligibility)
The Form DS-2019 is the “Certificate of Eligibility for Exchange Visitor (J-1) Status.” The Form DS-2019 is a controlled document that can be issued only by State Department-designated sponsors to foreign nationals (prospective exchange visitors) who they have screened and selected for participation in the exchange visitor program. Foreign nationals (prospective exchange visitors) then apply at a U.S. embassy or consulate for the J-1 exchange visitor visa to participate in their prospective sponsor’s exchange visitor program.
Applying for a J-1 Visa
In order to participate in the Exchange Visitor program, you must apply and receive the J visa from the U.S. embassy or consulate in your country. The waiting time for a J visa interview appointment can vary, so early visa application is strongly encouraged. You may apply for your visa at an embassy or consulate any time before the beginning of your exchange program. In order to begin the process, each applicant will be required to submit the following forms, documentation, and fees:
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A passport valid for travel to the United States, with an expiry date at least six months beyond the applicant's intended period of stay in the United States.
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One (1) 2×2-inch photograph.
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A completed and approved (signed) Form DS-7002 Training/Internship Placement Plan (T/IPP).
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Program fees (to be explained).
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I-901 SEVIS Fee for J visa applicants, which is currently USD $220.00.
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Form DS-2019 Certificate of Eligibility for Exchange Visitor Status (to be provided).
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Form DS-160 Nonimmigrant Visa Application. The processing fee for the Nonimmigrant Visa Application is currently USD $160.00; the proof of payment receipt must accompany your visa application.