America L-1 Intra-Company Transfer Visa
America H-1B, H-2A, H-2B and H3 Temporary Work Visa
America O Visa (Individuals with Extraordinary Ability)
America I Visa (Journalists and Media Workers)
America P Visa (Athletes, Artists and Entertainers)
America Q-1 Cultural Exchange Program Visa
America R Visa (Religious Workers)
🇺🇸 J-1 U.S. Exchange Visitor Visa
Individuals who wish to participate in an exchange program in the United States can apply for the J-1 U.S. Exchange Visitor Visa. This visa type allows participants to engage in educational, internship, research, or cultural exchange programs in the U.S. The application process may vary depending on the type of program and the applicant's personal situation.
📝 Required Documents
The following documents are required for the J-1 visa application:
- Valid Passport: A passport that is valid for at least 6 months from the date of travel completion.
- DS-160 Form: The U.S. visa application form must be completed online and in English.
- DS-2020 Form: The form issued by the program sponsor and approved by SEVIS.
- DS-2020 Form: The form issued by the program sponsor and approved by SEVIS.
- Biometric Photo: A recent color photo, 5x5 cm, with a white background.
- Copy of National ID: A copy of the Turkish identity card.
- Full Family Registration Certificate: A document showing the address and family details.
- Visa Request Letter: A letter written in English, explaining the travel purpose and financial situation.
- SEVIS I-901 Fee Payment Receipt: Proof of payment for SEVIS registration.
💼 Sponsor Documents
For J-1 visa applications, a sponsor is required. The following documents must be provided based on the sponsor’s situation:
- Sponsor’s Financial Documents: Bank account statements, salary slips, pension card copy, etc.
- Sponsor’s ID and Residence Documents: A copy of the national ID, proof of residence, etc.
- Sponsor’s Employment Documents: Social Security Service records, employment contract, tax certificate, etc.
- Sponsor’s Financial Documents: Bank account statements, salary slips, pension card copy, etc.
- Additional Income Documents: Documents such as rental income, photocopies of the title deed, and vehicle registration.
📅 Application Process
The J-1 visa application process includes the following steps:
- Apply to an Educational Institution and Get Accepted: After being accepted by an SEVP-approved school, the school will issue the DS-2020 form.
- Pay the SEVIS I-901 Fee: After receiving the DS-2020 form, pay the SEVIS fee to activate the system.
- Complete the DS-160 Form: Fill out the DS-160 form online in English.
- Schedule an Appointment: Schedule a visa interview with the U.S. Consulate.
- Attend the Interview: On the scheduled date, attend the interview with the required documents including the DS-160 confirmation page.
📌 Important Notes
- Visa Duration and Work Permit: The J-1 visa is valid for the duration of the program. In certain programs, participants may be eligible for limited off-campus work.
- Visa Denial: Even if your documents are complete and correct, your visa application may still be denied. It is recommended not to make any travel arrangements until your visa has been approved.
- Visa Fee: The visa application fee is non-refundable, even if the application is denied.
- Visa Approval: Visa approval does not guarantee entry to the U.S. Entry will be granted upon arrival by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers.
🕒 Processing Time
The processing time for J-1 visa applications may vary depending on the consulate's workload. Results can generally be expected within 3 business days after the interview date. However, official holidays and other factors may affect this time. Therefore, it is recommended to apply at least 2 months before the start of the program.