Obtain a Visa as a Trainee or Intern

Special visas exist for short-term business and cultural exchange programs. If you have been offered an internship or business training opportunity in the United States, we can facilitate your J-1 visa application and ensure that everything is in order. Our attorneys have helped clients with non-immigrant visas for years with a high level of success, both in California and throughout the country.

Am I Eligible?

These visas are available to trainees and interns. Interns are currently enrolled in a college or university in their home country, while trainees are graduates who are already established in a given industry. In both cases, a host organization must invite you and sponsor your visa through a participating program.

Requirements: Intern

To apply for a J-1 visa as an intern, you must:

• Be at least 18 years old
• Stay in the U.S. between three weeks and 12 months
• Speak English proficiently
• Be enrolled in a post-secondary, degree-granting program
• Have financial support that is three times the average monthly rent where you will be living
• Repeat participation in the internship program is possible, provided you remain eligible.

Requirements: Trainee

These requirements are similar to the intern requirements above, with a few key differences. Trainees often come to the United States for business or medical training. Trainees must:

• Be at least 18 years old
• Stay for a minimum of three weeks or maximum of 18 months
• Speak English proficiently
• Be a college or university graduate with one year of experience in the relevant industry, or else five years of full-time work experience in the relevant industry.
• Have financial support totaling three times the average monthly rent expenses in the community where you will live
• While you may participate in the trainee visa program multiple times, you must have at least 24 months separating your stays in the U.S.

How We Can Assist You

Every intern and trainee must submit a large amount of paperwork to apply for a J-1 visa. Our lawyers will make sure that everything complies with U.S. Department of State rules and regulations. Almost all our clients win approval.

Get Help With Your Visa Application

Our attorneys are committed to helping you take advantage of your opportunity in the United States. Contact our legal team today to find out what services we can offer. You can reach our Los Angeles office by email or phone: 323-218-0465.

The Difference Between A J1 Intern And A J1 Trainee

A J1 visa lawyer can help you find valuable work experience in the United States. At the Bolour / Carl Immigration Group, APC, we often guide clients through the J1 visa category, particularly when distinguishing between the Intern and Trainee programs:

Overview Of J1 Intern And Trainee

The J1 Intern and Trainee programs are designed to offer foreign professionals and students valuable insights and experience in a range of fields including business, finance, science, and the arts. While both programs aim to promote cultural exchange and professional development, they cater to different levels of expertise and career stages, each with specific eligibility requirements and permitted durations. A J1 visa lawyer can help you decide which is best for you.

Who Qualifies As A J1 Intern

The J1 Intern program is tailored for foreign nationals who are currently enrolled in post-secondary academic institutions or have graduated from them within 12 months of the start date of their internship.

This program is ideal for those who are early in their careers and are looking to gain practical experience in their field of study. Interns can participate in the program for up to 12 months, and the internships are typically aligned with the intern’s academic curriculum, providing a practical experience that complements their academic learning.

Who Qualifies As A J1 Trainee

In contrast, the J1 Trainee program is intended for professionals who have either a degree or professional certificate from a foreign post-secondary academic institution and at least one year of prior related work experience outside the United States, or five years of work experience in their occupational field outside the United States.

This program allows trainees to further develop their skills in a specialized field and enhance their knowledge about American techniques, methodologies, and expertise. Trainees are permitted to stay in the U.S. for up to 18 months, depending on the field of training.

Program Goals And Objectives

Both the Intern and Trainee programs require that participants engage in a structured and guided work-based learning experience. These experiences are not only about gaining practical skills but also about understanding American culture and business practices. The programs emphasize the exchange of ideas, mutual enrichment, and professional development. The hosting organization in the U.S. plays a crucial role in providing a meaningful experience that aligns with the specific objectives of the J1 category under which an individual is sponsored.

Legal And Administrative Considerations

For both J1 Interns and Trainees, there are important legal and administrative requirements that must be met. These include the formulation of a training/internship placement plan, which outlines the specific learning goals, phases of the internship or training, supervision details, and the evaluation process. Compliance with these plans is monitored by designated sponsor organizations, which also handle the initial visa application process and ensure that all participants and host organizations meet the program’s regulatory requirements.

How We Can Help

At Bolour / Carl Immigration Group, APC, we provide comprehensive guidance and legal support to ensure that your program not only meets all regulatory expectations but also achieves the educational and professional development goals of the J1 visa category.

Reach out to us today, and see how a trainees and interns visa lawyer from our office can help you get started.

Finding A Sponsor For A J1 Visa

J1 visas for trainees and interns are a great tool if you’re trying to gain valuable work experience while also getting a firsthand look at the United States. At Bolour / Carl Immigration Group, APC, we’ve been helping thousands of clients secure their visas since 1993, and now we’re ready to help you through the process. The first step? Securing a sponsor:

What Is A J1 Visa Sponsor

A J1 visa sponsor is an organization designated by the U.S. Department of State to facilitate the exchange program. These sponsors are responsible for screening and selecting participants, providing pre-arrival information, and ensuring that the exchange program complies with U.S. regulations. They play a crucial role in the application process, as only through their sponsorship can you obtain a J1 visa.

Identifying Eligible Sponsors

The first step in finding a J1 visa sponsor is to identify organizations that are authorized to sponsor your specific exchange program. These organizations can include universities, cultural exchange organizations, government agencies, and private sector companies. The U.S. Department of State maintains a list of designated sponsors, which can be a valuable resource in your search.

Preparing Your Application

Once you have identified potential sponsors, the next step is to prepare your application. This involves gathering all necessary documentation, such as your resume, academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement. The personal statement should outline your goals for the exchange program, your qualifications, and how the program aligns with your career aspirations.

Submitting Your Application

After preparing your application, you will need to submit it to the chosen sponsors. This process may vary depending on the sponsor, but typically involves submitting your documents through an online portal or via email. It is important to follow the sponsor’s instructions carefully and ensure that all required materials are included. From here, a lawyer that specializes in J1 visas for trainees and interns can walk you through the rest of the process.

Ensuring Compliance With Program Requirements

Once you have obtained your J1 visa and arrived in the United States, it is important to comply with all program requirements. This includes maintaining your status by participating fully in your exchange program, adhering to the program rules, and keeping in regular contact with your sponsor. Your sponsor will provide ongoing support and guidance throughout your stay, ensuring that you have a positive and fulfilling experience.

Finding a sponsor for a J1 visa is a critical step in participating in exchange programs in the United States. By identifying eligible sponsors, preparing a strong application, and understanding the requirements, you can increase your chances of success.

If you need assistance with any part of this process, Bolour / Carl Immigration Group, APC is here to help. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards achieving your exchange program goals. Together, we can help you embark on an enriching experience in the United States. Contact us today, and see how a J1 visa for trainees and interns can help you build a future.