The international visitor category under the J-1 visa is for people-to-people programs, which seek to develop and strengthen professional and personal ties between key foreign nationals, Americans, and American institutions. Participants are selected by the U.S. Department of State, and they must be a recognized or potential leader in a field of specialized knowledge or skill.
Participants are engaged in consultation, observation, research, training, or demonstration of special skills. They participate in observation tours, discussions, consultations, professional meetings, conferences, workshops, and travel as a way to better understand U.S. culture and society and contribute to a better knowledge of foreign cultures in the U.S.
The maximum duration under this program is one year.
Sponsors are required to provide international visitors with a summary of the significant components of the program.
