J-1 Exchange Visitor Program

The J-1 Exchange Visitor Program was created in 1961 as part of the Fulbright-Hayes Act, a public law written to "increase mutual understanding between the people of the United States and the people of the other countries through educational and cultural exchanges." The U.S. Department of State has authority over the J-1 program. Currently, Florida Tech has 5 categories of J-1 visitors. The purpose and length of the scholar's visit at Florida Tech will determine the appropriate category (See also J-1 Categories at Florida Tech).

J-1 Program Information

In the links below, you will find important information about the J-1 program at Florida Tech.

IMPORTANT: If requesting a visitor on the "J" immigration document, DO NOT request a Guest Role ID number. The visitor will receive documentation for the ID number when they check in at the ISSS Office.

For Florida Tech Departments:

Purpose of the Exchange Visitor Program
Hosting an Exchange Visitor
J-1 Eligibility
Transfer Eligibility Form (PDF)
J-1 Process Overview (PDF)
DS-2019 Request Instructions
Required Funding Documentation
Department Responsibilities
J-1 Exchange Visitor Categories at Florida Tech

For Scholars:

Prospective Researchers and Scholars
Applying for a Visa and Payment of the SEVIS Fee
Understanding SEVIS
Entering the U.S.—What to Expect
J-1 Responsibilities? (PDF)
J-1 Pre-Arrival Procedural Checklist
Arrival Checklist
Inviting Family to Join or Visit You
Family Matters
Maintaining Legal Status in the U.S.
Address Notification Requirement
24-month Bar on repeat Visits
2-year Home Residency Requirement
Health Insurance Requirements
Travel and Re-entry to the U.S.
Off-Campus Employment/Payment Authorization
Taxes in the U.S.
Extending J-1 in the U.S.
Transfer of J-1
Changing Your Immigration Status
Returning J-1 Researchers and Professors
J-2 FAQs
Understanding Your Visa
J-2 Employment
J1 Academic Training Updated April 2018
J-1 Student Hardship Employment Permission