Non-Canadians: To legally enter the United States for your training program, you must obtain a J-1 Visa by applying for the visa at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate in your country using the visa documents that Cultural Vistas sent to you.
Step 1: Schedule and prepare for your visa appointment at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate
The U.S. Department of State website provides information about current visa policies. It also provides contact information for your local U.S. Embassy or Consulate, and details regarding application procedures.
- Visit your U.S. Consulate website to find instructions on how to apply, as well as application forms and information on visa fees.
- Sign your DS-2019 Certificate of Eligibility in blue ink in the bottom left section where “Signature of Applicant” is indicated.
- Complete a DS-160 Nonimmigrant Visa Electronic Application form to submit for your visa interview.
(When completing the visa application, it is important to write that you are training, NOT working. The J-1 Visa is a practical training visa, and not a work visa. It is also important to understand that the J-1 Visa is a non-immigrant visa that allows you a short period of training in the USA. You must return to your home country at the end of your program).
- Pay the visa application fee associated with the DS-160.
- Schedule your visa appointment. You should make an appointment immediately upon receiving your Sponsorship Approval e-mail from Cultural Vistas. Depending on the country, this can be done in person, or by telephone, mail, or the internet.
Refer to the U. S. Department of State Embassy and Consulate directory for information. *If you are unable to schedule a consulate appointment that will allow to arrive before the start date listed on your DS-2019 Form, please contact Cultural Vistas immediately.
Step 2: Attend your visa appointment at the U.S. Embassy/Consulate
When you go for your appointment, you should bring the following documents:
- Valid Passport: Your passport MUST be valid for at least 6 months beyond the end date of your program.
- DS-2019 (Certificate of Eligibility): Be sure to sign and date your DS-2019 form in blue ink in the lower left where “signature of applicant” is indicated.
- DS-7002 (Training/Internship Placement Plan)
- I-901 (SEVIS I-901 Payment Confirmation)
- Completed DS-160 Non-Immigrant Visa Application(s)
- One or more passport-size photographs
- Any other documents required by the United States Consulate. It is beneficial to bring documentation to the interview that supports your home ties to your country, such as property forms or family ties.
Your application will be reviewed by the Consular Officer, who will make the final decision on issuance of your J-1 Visa. The Consular Officer will interview you to determine your interest in the United States, your English language skills, and the purpose of your stay. Additional application materials may be requested by the Consular Officer to prove your eligibility for the J-1 Visa. Such materials may include evidence of English proficiency, further proof of strong ties to your home country, or verification of your ability to support yourself financially while in the United States. Further review may also be required.
Remember to ask for a “multiple entry” visa. A “multiple entry” visa will allow you to enter the U.S. multiple times during your program dates on the J-1 Visa. To check your visa for multiple entrances, look under the “entries” section on the J-1 Visa. It should be marked with an “M” under the “Entries” section.
Step 3: Receive passport with visa back from the U.S. Embassy/Consulate
If approved, your J-1 Visa will be issued and stamped in your passport. The Consular Officer will return your DS-2019, and your passport with your J-1 Visa. Depending upon the location, you will either receive your visa stamp the day of your visa interview or your stamped passport will be sent to you via post within days.
If your J-1 Visa application is denied, please contact Cultural Vistas immediately.
Cultural Vistas will determine whether we are able to appeal the denial, or whether we will withdraw sponsorship. Please note that Cultural Vistas reserves the right to withdraw program sponsorship and, at such time, issue any refunds due in accordance with our refund policy.
Important Notes
The J-1 Visa stamped in your passport is like an entry ticket that allows you to enter the U.S. However, it is your DS-2019 that allows you to train while in the United States. Both the visa and the DS-2019 are required for your training program. In addition, please keep your I-901 with your documents. These are essential legal documents and should be always kept in a safe place.
Instructions for Canadian citizens
The process for entering the United States for Canadian citizens is different from any other nationality. Due to the unique relationship between our two countries, Canadian citizens do NOT need to apply at the U.S. Consulate for a J-1 Visa stamp. You may proceed directly to the border and cross with your sponsorship paperwork issued by Cultural Vistas. When preparing to cross the Canadian/United States border please have a valid Canadian passport, your I-901, DS-7002, and DS-2019. You will receive a stamp in your passport indicating a J-1 Visa.