J-1 Visa for Trainees and Interns

Understanding J-1 Visas

The J visa is reserved for a number of programs that fall under the broad category of “exchange visitor” visas. All J-1 visa holders are expected to return to their home country upon completion of their program. The US Department of State designates U.S. government and academic and private sector entities to conduct the J-1 exchange programs. At the Law Office of Camiel Becker, our attorneys work directly with these entities to help obtain sponsorship for our clients.

Although the J-1 program includes a number of programs – including categories for au pairs, camp counselors, secondary school students – our firm works only with two categories: (1) Career Training Program; and (2) Internship Programs. We also work with J-1 Waivers.

Qualifications for the Career Training Program (maximum of 18 months)

20 years old or older
Speak English at an advanced level
Training responsabilities must align with field of study
Have a degree or professional certificate from a foreign post-secondary academic institution and;
At least one year of work experience from a foreign post-secondary study acquired outside the U.S or;
Have five years of work experience related field of study acquired outside the U.S.

Qualifications for the Internship Program (maximum of 12 months)

18 years old or older
Speak English at an advanced level
Be a current full-time student at a post-secondary institution outside the U.S. and have completed at least 2 semesters at post-secondary academic institution, OR be a recent graduate of such an institution able to start an internship program within 12 months of graduation date
Internship responsibilities must align with field of study

Spouses and Children of J-1 Visa Holders

Spouses and unmarried children under 21 of certain J-1 visa holders may be eligible for J-2 visas. In order for a spouse or minor child to obtain a J-2 visa, the sponsoring entity must approve the accompaniment of the spouse and/or child and the family member must be issue this or her own Form DS-2019. After entering the US, J-2 visa holders are eligible to apply for an Employment Authorization Document.

What are J-1 Waivers?

When a J visa holder is subject to the 2-year home residency requirement, that person must either return home for a period of two years or apply for and obtain an approved J-1 waiver before he or she can obtain an H or L visa or lawful permanent resident status. J-1 waivers can be based on “no objection” letters, extreme hardship or persecution. J-1 waiver analysis is complicated in part because not all waivers are available to every J-1 visa holder. The underlying trigger for the two-year home residency rule must be carefully analyzed to determine which, if any, waivers might be available. We have successfully helped applicants obtain J-1 waivers so they could avoid returning home for two-years.

Connecting Your Business With International Talent

At the Law Office of Camiel Becker, employment-based immigration is one of our primary practice areas. Our experienced attorneys have worked with a range of talented individuals, employers and human resources professionals to help trainees and interns with their J-1 visa process. Past clients include California universities, Silicon Valley tech companies, design firms, real estate companies and a range of additional start-ups and businesses.

Our J-1 visa lawyers offer comprehensive representation to help ensure legal compliance and help increase chances of success in the visa application process. Contact our office to learn more about your options.

      
   Law office of Camiel Becker
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   Clare Bienvenu 
 
 
 
  My Italian husband is now a US citizen thanks to Camiel Becker! Camiel advised us from start to finish (fiancé visa to green card and now naturalization), and he was successful in every step of our case. Camiel is an excellent immigration attorney and an incredible person to work with. I would highly recommend his services.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Ms. MJ Vuinovich 
 
 
 
  Camiel is an incredible asset for any family, business, or organization with immigration issues. Camiel is easy to work with while also being keenly aware of every detail. His years of experience in immigration law gives him a practical working knowledge that is hard to find. Camiel comes with the highest recommendation.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Mark Chambers 
 
 
 
  I had the pleasure of working with Camiel when I needed assistance in navigating the world of visa options for foreign basketball players to attend a LGBTQ+ basketball tournament. Camiel's expertise and responsiveness lowered my stress level as he promptly addressed my queries and guided me through the entire process.

I greatly appreciated his guidance and assistance in compiling all the necessary materials for a seamless application. His attention to detail and commitment to ensuring we had everything required for the right visa were truly commendable.

I would highly recommend Camiel to anyone in need of visa assistance, especially for foreign basketball players.
Thank you, Camiel, for your service!
  
 
  
  
 
 Showing our latest reviews

      
   Law office of Camiel Becker
   3 Google reviews 
  Write a review 
  
 
 
   
 
 
       Posted on Google  
   
   Clare Bienvenu 
 
 
 
  My Italian husband is now a US citizen thanks to Camiel Becker! Camiel advised us from start to finish (fiancé visa to green card and now naturalization), and he was successful in every step of our case. Camiel is an excellent immigration attorney and an incredible person to work with. I would highly recommend his services.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Ms. MJ Vuinovich 
 
 
 
  Camiel is an incredible asset for any family, business, or organization with immigration issues. Camiel is easy to work with while also being keenly aware of every detail. His years of experience in immigration law gives him a practical working knowledge that is hard to find. Camiel comes with the highest recommendation.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Mark Chambers 
 
 
 
  I had the pleasure of working with Camiel when I needed assistance in navigating the world of visa options for foreign basketball players to attend a LGBTQ+ basketball tournament. Camiel's expertise and responsiveness lowered my stress level as he promptly addressed my queries and guided me through the entire process.

I greatly appreciated his guidance and assistance in compiling all the necessary materials for a seamless application. His attention to detail and commitment to ensuring we had everything required for the right visa were truly commendable.

I would highly recommend Camiel to anyone in need of visa assistance, especially for foreign basketball players.
Thank you, Camiel, for your service!
  
 
  
  
 
 Showing our latest reviews

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We are ready to answer your individual or business immigration questions.

How We Can Help You

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415-863-3910

Practice Areas

J-1 Visa for Trainees and Interns

Understanding J-1 Visas

Qualifications for the Career Training Program (maximum of 18 months)

Qualifications for the Internship Program (maximum of 12 months)

Spouses and Children of J-1 Visa Holders

What are J-1 Waivers?

Connecting Your Business With International Talent

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How We Can Help You

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We will guide you every step of the way!