How to apply for the J1 exchange visitor visa in the United States?

1. Preparation of application materials for DS2019 form

When receiving the invitation letter (mainly prepare your resume, visiting research plan and other materials, and submit the application through the supervisor’s unit or thesis written, etc. (channels to find mentors), indicating that the study tour has entered a substantial stage.

2. Preparation of visa materials

The first step is to receive the DS2019 form. When filling in the receiving address of the DS2019 form, be sure to fill it in clearly, and fill in the mobile phone as the contact information, and estimate the arrival date of the DS2019 form. Please note that the DS2019 form must be kept well and used everywhere. It is recommended to make a copy for later use.

The second step is to pay the registration fee (SEVIS-901 FEE). This step can actually be done in advance, because when sending the DS2019 form, the school will usually tell you the sending time and approximate arrival time, and will also attach SEVIS ID NUMBER / PROGRAM NUMBER and other information

The third step, CITIC Bank pays the visa fee and purchases a visa appointment phone card.

The fourth step is to fill in the DS160 form online and remember the series of numbers on the DS160 form. This is a life of patience. Here are some suggestions.

First, remember to back up the information on each step of the DS160 form at any time

Second, keep relevant information close to you, such as passport, DS2019 form, SEVIS FEE receipt, visa payment form, etc. Wait

The third is to first read the online filling guide for the DS160 form written by many people on the Internet to avoid interruptions in the filling process and to avoid affecting the mood

The fourth is to fill in the DS160 form and require electronic photos. , it is strongly recommended to check the photo requirements (square, 600*600-1200*1200 pixels, no larger than 240k), and remember the DS160 form filling URL

The fifth step is to make a visa appointment by phone. Please check the telephone reservation process online. Reminder:

First, remember to be fully prepared before calling, including personal ID number, passport number, passport issuance date and expiration date, CITIC Bank visa appointment fee voucher number, SEVIS ID/ on the DS2019 form PROGRAM NUMBER, DS160 confirmation page, etc.

Second, take this information, prepare a pen and white paper, sit in the office and follow the steps to dial and answer. Don’t be nervous. If the other end of the phone speaks too fast, Quickly, please prepare the time when you can apply for the visa first, and try not to conflict with important matters. Then when the person on the phone gives you the time for the visa, you can say OK. Please remember the visa appointment number.

The sixth step is to prepare interview materials.

3. Interview

4. Departure

After booking the air tickets, inform your own unit and the receiving unit. Prepare your luggage.

Necessary materials for J1 visa application

Completed DS-156 and DS-157 application forms

Receipt of visa application fee paid at CITIC Industrial Bank

A valid passport. The passport must be valid for at least 6 months longer than the planned stay in the United States.

Applicants for a “J” visa will need a completed DS-2019 form. Scholars participating in the “J” visiting program must present a DS-2019 form issued by the sponsor. Applicants for “Q” visas will need an approval form, Form I-797. Persons participating in the "Q" exchange visitor program are required to have a Nonimmigrant Employment Approval Form I-129 approved by the USCIS and issued by the sponsor. When the work authorization is approved, USCIS will notify the sponsor named on Form I-797. It should be noted that if the applicant does not meet the requirements of the Immigration and Nationality Act, he or she is not guaranteed a visa even if his or her work permit has been approved.

Prove that there are sufficient scholarships or personal funds to cover all of its expenses or that there are other arrangements made for its expenses. “Sufficient funds” means that the applicant will neither become a public burden nor rely on unapproved work to pay for his or her expenses while in the United States.