The Exchange Visitor Program (EVP), also known as BridgeUSA or the J-1 Visa Program, is a diplomacy initiative administered by the Department of State’s (DOS) Office of Exchange Coordination and Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA).

Initiated in 1948 with the Smith-Mundt Act and later amended in 1961 by the Fulbright-Hayes Act, the program provides foreign nationals with opportunities for educational and cultural experiences in the United States.

- Administered by the DOS’s Office of Exchange Coordination and ECA.
- Also known as BridgeUSA and J-1 Visa Program.
- Includes 15 different programs such as intern, trainee, and summer work and travel.
- Offers J-1 visas for cultural and educational exchange.
- Facilitates global understanding and relations through educational and cultural exchanges.

The J-1 internship program connects foreign nationals with internship opportunities in the United States. It allows participants to apply their academic knowledge in a practical setting at host organizations in the US, fostering professional growth and cross-cultural understanding.

- One of the 15 program types within the EVP.
- Enrollment through a designated sponsor in the category
- Duration ranges from 3 weeks to 12 months.
- Aims to bridge academic learning with real-world application.
- Provides real-world global experience across various occupational fields*.
- Unique opportunity for cultural exchange and professional growth in the US business environment.

*FUSIA is authorized to administer exchange internship programs in the following categories:

62.22(c)(2)(ii) Arts and Culture;
62.22(c)(2)(iv) Education, Social Sciences, Library Science, Counseling and Social Services;
62.22(c)(2)(vii) Information Media and Communications;
62.22(c)(2)(viii) Management, Business, Commerce and Finance;
62.22(c)(2)(ix) Public Administration and Law; and
62.22(c)(2)(x) The Sciences, Engineering, Architecture, Mathematics, and Industrial Occupations.

The J-1 internship program is designted for foreign nationals who are either actively enrolled or have recently graduated (within the last 12 months) from academically recognized institutions outside the United States, offering them practical experience in their field of study in a US setting and enriching both the educational and professional development of international participants.

It’s a unique opportunity for cultural exchange and professional growth in the American business environment.

J-1 Intern Eligibility

- Age 18+ by the program's start date.
- Current fulltime students or recent graduates with post-secondary degrees or certificates.
- Have secured an internship lasting from 3 weeks to 12 months
- Ensure that the internship aligns with their academic background or field of study.
- Agree to buy and keep qualified health insurance throughout your stay in the US.
- Have sufficient financial resources* to cover program related expenses.
- Proficient in English, supported by objective measurements established by sponsors and proof.
- Free from any outstanding tax liabilities.
- Agree to leave the US within the 30-day grace period post-program.
- Have no known issues that may jeopardize your US visa application/entry**.
- Have no intention of using the program for immigration purposes, bridging visa gaps, or securing employment in the US***.

*Financial sufficiency is a requirement for J-1 participants during the application process. You should have access to financial resources, either personally or through a sponsor, exceeding USD 450 per program week, and be prepared to provide proof of funds. While up to 50% of the minimum financial requirement may be covered by a stipend earned during the program, it’s crucial to ensure you have sufficient financial resources available, even if this income is not received.

**We do not handle visa program transfers.

***As examples, prior visa rejections for valid reasons or having a history of immigration violations or being sanctioned by the US government, whether for individuals themselves or their immediate family members.

US Host Eligibility

- A US-based entity with an EIN and at least one year of operational history.
- Office environment must be conducive to training and internships.
- Adequate full-time skilled staff available for continuous on-site supervision.
- Not associated with disreputable industries or illegal activities.
- Cannot be a staffing agency, nor involve staffing agencies for intern-related activities.
- Free from pending legal issues, disputes, or activities compromising program integrity.
- Gave valid Worker’s Compensation Insurance or equivalent, covering J-1 interns (paid or unpaid) unless state exemption applies.

The J-1 Internship Program involves a collaborative effort where the designated sponsor, exchange intern, host organization, along with the Department of State and Department of Homeland Security, each play vital roles in ensuring the program’s effective operation and adherence to regulatory standards, contributing significantly to its overall success and integrity.

1 Department of State (DOS) The DOS’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA) manages cultural exchange programs, including the J-1 Internship Program. US embassies and consulates abroad, under the jurisdiction of the DOS, play a crucial role in the J-1 visa application process, facilitating the issuance of J-1 visas for exchange visitors.

2 Designated Sponsor State Department-designated sponsors administer J-1 internships. They screen and admit foreign nationals, issue Form DS-2019, and ensure program compliance. FUSIA is one such sponsor for J-1 internships and STEM initiatives.

3 Host Organization Host organizations are eligible third-party US registered entities that collaborate with sponsors under written agreements to provide internships to J-1 interns or trainees.

4 Participant Participants in the Exchange Visitor Program (EVP) are commonly referred to as Exchange Visitors (EVs). Specifically, within the J-1 Internship category, they are known as J-1 Interns. These eligible foreign nationals are authorized by designated sponsors to participate in the EVP, allowing them to engage in cultural exchange experiences and acquire practical experience related to their academic field or background.

5 Department of Homeland Security (DHS) DHS has three departments involved in J-1 internships. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), responsible for border security, determines admission upon entry. During and after the program period, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) plays a role in immigration-related issues. For immigration benefits like extensions or status changes, US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is responsible.

Foreign nationals interested in the J-1 Internship Program should initially secure a qualified host and internship in the US. They then identify a designated sponsor to commence the process.

FUSIA is a designated sponsor for J-1 internships and STEM initiatives. Applicants who have already secured a US host and internship are considered “Self-Placed (SP) interns,” while those without can apply as “CCIP-Placed (CP) interns.”

1 Ensure you are a full-time student or recent graduate who study outside the US.
2 Seek an internship matching your academic background and interests.
3 Identify a designated sponsor to screen and admit you and your host to the EVP.
4 Undergo screening by designated sponsor.
5 SP interns** start at panel 01; CP interns at panel 00; prospective hosts at panel 02.
6 Obtain signed DS-2019 and DS-7002 forms, then apply for a visa at a US embassy or consulate*.

*Eligible Canadians and Burmese nationals may apply for J-1 student status directly at the border.

**SP interns, make sure you have an offer letter and proof (e.g., email or screenshot) of your interview with the host.

The J-1 Internship Program offers exchange visitors and their respective hosts a comprehensive and enriching experience in the United States. It’s a transformative journey of cultural exchange, a catalyst for professional growth, and a platform for fostering mutual understanding between participants and their American colleagues.

Office Hours During the program, participants intern at their respective host organizations full-time on weekdays during office hours. They gain valuable hands-on experience in their academic fields, developing professional skills in the American context, and they interact with American colleagues, fostering global understanding and creating meaningful connections.

After Work After work, participants socialize with their American colleagues, friends, and fellow exchange visitors. They immerse themselves in cultural activities such as museum visits, after-hour hangouts, shopping, and exploring various US attractions. These experiences not only enrich their cultural understanding but also create lasting memories and connections that extend beyond their workplace interactions.

Post-Program Post-program, participants have a 30-day grace period for farewells or short trips. Upon returning to their home countries, they apply the knowledge and experiences gained during their J-1 Internship Program, sharing them with their countrymen and applying them to their work, thus contributing to the betterment of their communities and fostering mutual benefits and cultural understanding.

Hosting J-1 interns provides enriching experiences with significant advantages for both US hosts and foreign interns. For US hosts, it enhances innovation, enriches workplace culture, and bolsters productivity and motivation.

A survey by the Alliance for International Exchange revealed that 95% of host organizations saw positive impacts on their culture, and 68% noted increased competitiveness. Click HERE.

Below, we summarize the key areas where our past hosts have observed a positive impact from J-1 interns:

- Bringing new ideas and unique perspectives.
- Fostering synergy between American employees/interns and international interns.
- Stimulating creative thinking with innovative approaches.
- Enriching the team with valuable global insights and enhancing workplace diversity.

J-1 intern designated sponsors charge a nominal fee to support essential sponsor duties, encompassing screening, program administration, and ongoing monitoring, ensuring a smooth process and compliance.

1 Initial Program Fees The following payments are due upon acceptance into the J-1 internship sponsored by FUSIA and the issuance of Form DS-2019. This form is necessary for the visa interview and entry into the US. Additionally, changes or amendments to the program arrangements will incur extra amendment fees. Participants are responsible for any bank fees incurred during money transfers, if applicable.

- USD 1,550: Visa sponsorship fee charged by FUSIA.
- USD 220: SEVIS fee charged by the DHS to maintain SEVIS.

2 Associated Fees The following list includes possible program-associated fees that may vary depending on individual circumstances and are paid directly to specific entities. Always budget extra as a precaution.

- USD 185: Nonimmigrant visa (MRV) fee charged by the DOS to process visa applications.
- Reciprocity fee (charged to some passport holders).
- USD 50/month: Health insurance meeting qualified DOS requirements.
- USD 1,000-2,000: Airfare.
- USD 450/month: Estimated living expenses.

Admission into the J-1 internship program is not a guarantee of visa approval or entry to the US. Partial refunds are available for program cancellations made either before the visa interview or over six weeks before the program start date, whichever comes first, for any reason, including visa interview failures.

J-1 internships come with important compliance requirements that applicants must be aware of to ensure the right expectations before joining. Below, we highlight key considerations and essential information that applicants should be aware of before joining.

1 Visa Classification A US visa or status is required for foreign nationals participating in US internships. B1/B2/ESTA visas are unsuitable for internships, whether paid or unpaid. The J visa/status type is for foreign nationals participating in internships in the US under the EVP. J-1 is for exchange visitors, and J-2 is for dependents.

2 J Visa or Status Generally, prospective exchange visitors apply for a J visa at a US embassy or consulate located abroad. There is a nonimmigrant visa application (MRV) fee charged by the Department of State for processing visa applications. Qualifying Canadians or Bermudians may apply for J-1 intern status at the border and bypass the visa interview and visa application fee. The SEVIS fee, charged by the Department of Homeland Security, is applicable to all exchange visitors.

3 J-1 internships People often confuse H and J visa types. The H visa is typically for working, while the J visa is for cultural and educational exchange, including internships. H visa holders are sponsored by their employers, while J visa holders are sponsored by the Department of State-designated sponsors. Unless the host is a designated sponsor, applicants need to identify a designated sponsor to admit them to the EVP and monitor their program.

4 Administrative Duties The EVP J-1 internship program comes with significant compliance requirements; therefore, the application process can’t be overly simplified. Despite our straightforward application process, when joining, ensure you are willing to dedicate time to application and program administration to ensure a smooth and compliant experience.

5 SEVIS Information about J-1 interns entered into SEVIS, a system managed by the Department of Homeland Security to monitor F/M/J visa holders, must adhere to strict rules regarding accuracy, currency, and completeness. Any discrepancies or errors can result in delays in the visa application process, incurring additional administrative fees, and may even lead to visa rejection or program cancellation.

6 Program Date The program begin date must be determined carefully. Ensure that it (a) falls within a year after your graduation date and (b) is after your arrival date in the US. Due to varying visa application timelines (HERE), set the start date a few days after your anticipated interview, allowing for administrative processing in some cases. Failure to arrive in the US before your designated program start date will trigger an amendment process with administrative fees and increase the likelihood of questioning by CBP upon US admission. If arrival is delayed by more than 10 days, program cancellation may occur.

7 Cultural Activities Cultural engagement is a vital aspect of the EVP exchange visitors’ experience. Not only are participants expected to gain skills and knowledge, but they are also encouraged to actively engage in activities to firsthand experience American culture, foster global citizenship, and develop greater cultural awareness. FUSIA mandates that participants engage in at least four activities, each requiring a write-up and 2-5 photos featuring them. Additionally, participants need to submit 8-10 photos describing their internship experience. These photos may be featured on FUSIA's website and social media platforms, and participation implies consent to this use and adherence to the specified requirements.

8 Consecutive Programs For consecutive US programs, including a J-1 internship with FUSIA, if both programs are of the same visa type (J), you must complete the first program before applying for the visa for the second program from outside the US because holding two visas of the same type simultaneously is not allowed, and obtaining the second one will result in the cancellation of your first visa. If the other program is of a different visa type, such as an F visa, you can apply for both visas before your trip the US. After finishing the first program, you will need to exit the country and re-enter to begin the second one.

9 Two Year Rule After your visa interview, if you are granted a J-1 visa, both the visa stamp in your passport and the DS-2019 form will indicate whether you are subject to the two-year home-country physical presence requirement. If you are bound by this rule, it means you must return to your home country for at least two years at the end of your exchange program before you can qualify for certain other US visas or status adjustments.

10 Repeated J-1 Interns/Trainees Former exchange interns/trainees are eligible to participate in additional J-1 internship and training programs, subject to meeting specific criteria. These include: (1) verification of eligibility during the previous program and successful program completion, (2) the additional program focusing on the development of more advanced skills or a different field of expertise, (3) fulfillment of the two-year residency requirement (for J-1 training program applicants), and (4) maintenance of student status, initiation of a new internship program within 12 months of graduation, or successful completion of a recognized course of study and enrollment in the next higher level of academic pursuit (for J-1 internship applicants).