Scheduling your J-1 Visa Interview
The first step in preparing for you J-1 visa interview is scheduling it with the U.S. embassy or consulate. It is much easier to schedule an appointment in your country of permanent residence. Wait times can vary by location, visa type and time of year, so schedule early so that you have adequate time prior to the start date of your program. It is best to contact the U.S. Embassy or Consulate where you will conduct you interview to obtain all the instructions on what documents to prepare for the day of your interview.
Pay Your Nonimmigrant Visa Application Processing Fee
Visit the Online Nonimmigrant VISA Application (DS-160) at https://ceac.state.gov/GenNIV/Default.aspx. Fill out the application and provide a payment of $160 USD in order to be able to schedule the interview. Make sure to print out a copy of your receipt. You will need to bring your DS-160 form and payment receipt with you to your J-1 visa interview.
Required Documentation (You can use these bullets as a Checklist):
- Documents Check – Contact your country’s consulate or embassy again to confirm with the necessary materials as you are applying for J-1 visa, as it might vary at different embassies. You can find more information https://j1visa.state.gov/
- Passport – Should be valid for a minimum of 6 months after departing the U.S. upon the completion of your program.
- Form DS-160 – Please bring the confirmation page with the barcode and the Non-refundable visa application fee receipt to the interview.
- Form DS-7002* – Training / Internship Placement Plan.
- Photo – One 2x2in. (5.08×5.08cm) photograph. Please check with the embassy or consulate for photo requirements.
- Form DS-2019 – A SEVIS- generated from included in this envelope provided by the visa sponsor that you will be required to bring with you for the J-1 visa interview.
- SEVIS Payment Receipt – You can download this online at: https://www.fmjfee.com/. It will ask for your last name, birthday, and SEVIS ID number.
- Binding Ties – You must be able to demonstrate ties to your home country (for example: family, job, financial prospects), that you are coming to the U.S. for a temporary period, and the purpose of your travel (to train/intern).
- Financial Forms – You might be required to show that you have sufficient funds to cover all of the costs for your travel. Relevant documents include most recent bank statements, employment letters, and tax returns. If you are financially supported by a parent or a family member, be sure to bring their relevant documentation as well.
*Reminder Regarding Your Form DS-7002 Training/Internship Plan:
DS-7002 Training Plan – Please print out the entire document and make sure you also print the pages signed by the visa sponsor and program supervisors (sent to you via e-mail)
Tips for a Successful Interview:
- Be sure to arrive early and be prepared with all of the required documents in hand.
- As the interview will be conducted in English, make sure you practice English conversation skills.
- Search the internet for examples of common interview questions and ask a friend or family member to help you practice.
- Maintain a positive, professional, and concise attitude.
Useful links :
· Intern: https://j1visa.state.gov/programs/intern/
· Trainee: https://j1visa.state.gov/programs/trainee
· Common questions for participants Intern Program: https://j1visa.state.gov/participants/common-questions/
· Common questions for participants Trainee Program: https://j1visa.state.gov/participants/common-questions/