Policies and Procedures (J-1)
The purpose of the Exchange Visitor Program is to “promote mutual understanding between the people of the United States and other countries by means of educational and cultural exchange” [The Exchange Visitor Program-Welcome Brochure, U.S. Department of State.] Emory hosts between 400-500 J Exchange Visitors each year for temporary programs, offering such opportunities as research, teaching, observation, training, and study.
Exchange Visitors are selected and invited to participate in a temporary Exchange Visitor Program. Scholars who wish to pursue an exchange opportunity will need to contact the department of interest directly to find out if there are any openings. If an invitation or offer is given, the department will request ISSS to issue documents to the exchange visitor for the J visa.
Determining Eligibility for a J-Program
Many factors determine eligibility for participation in the J-1 Exchange Program. The purpose of the visit will determine whether or not the J program is appropriate. Other factors will need to be reviewed to determine eligibility for J Exchange Program sponsorship:
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An exchange agreement is documented between Emory and the scholar or an agency representing the scholar.
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Objectives for the visit are within the scope of the exchange agreement.
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Length of program is temporary, and the scholar has the intention of returning home after completion.
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Current status if already in the U.S.
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Previous J visits within the past 2 years may bar repeat participation in a new J program.
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Position offered cannot be tenure or tenure-track.
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English proficiency required at least at intermediate level in reading, writing, speaking and listening.
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Proof of financial support to cover personal expenses
Steps for Obtaining a J-1 Visa Sponsorship From Emory.
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Receive an official invitation from an Emory department.
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Provide the following documentation to the department:
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Completed Exchange Visitor Information Form, including
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Signature on Page 3 statement regarding Medical Health Insurance requirement
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Signature on Page 3 statement regarding return to home country
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Copy of passport ID page and any renewal pages (and passport ID pages for dependents, if applicable)
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Current resume
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Documentation of financial support and English translation, if non-Emory funding is provided
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If in the U.S. in the past 24 months, (copies of I-94 card, Forms I-20, DS-2019, I-797, etc.)
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Copies of diplomas and/or transcripts indicating degree(s) earned, plus English translation
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Maintain communication with the departmental administrator to facilitate the process.
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Department will request the Form DS-2019 (Certificate of Eligibility for the J Visa) to be issued to you.
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ISSS will issue the Form DS-2019 and pre-arrival information.
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Receive the pre-arrival packet from the department, containing the Form DS-2019 and instructions for applying for the J visa.
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Read ISSS’s website section on Pre-Arrival for J Scholars.