General Questions about the Exchange Visitor Program (J-1 Visa Program)
What is the purpose of the Exchange Visitor Program (J-1 visa program)?
The Exchange Visitor Program is carried out pursuant to the Mutual Educational and Cultural Exchange Act of 1961, as amended. Its purpose is to foster mutual understanding between the people of the United States and the people of other countries through educational and cultural exchanges. All exchanges visitors are expected to return to their home country upon completion of their program in order to share their exchange experiences with people in their home country.
Are there regulations which govern the Exchange Visitor Program (J-1 visa program)?
Yes, the regulations are set forth at 22 Code of Federal Register (CFR) Part 62. The regulations implement the Mutual Educational and Cultural Exchange Act of 1961, as amended, Public Law 87-256, 22 U.S.C. 2451, et seq. (1988). Please note we are revising the governing regulations. The regulations, and related Federal Register Notices updating the regulations, can be viewed from our web site at federal register publications link under E-Resources.
The consolidated Exchange Visitor Program regulations can be viewed from E-Resources at the link above.
What is the role and responsibility of the State Department’s Office of Private Sector Exchange?
The State Department’s Office of Private Sector Exchange in the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs is responsible for designating and monitoring eligible U.S. government, academic and private sector entities to administer their own exchange visitor programs in order to further promote international exchanges and the U.S. government’s public diplomacy efforts.
How can I contact the State Department’s Office of Private Sector Exchange?
Staff member’s names and areas of responsibility are provided on our web site. In addition, you may contact the Office via its general inquiries e-mail address: jvisas@state.gov. This mailbox is monitored on a daily basis and Office staff try to reply to inquiries within one to two business days of receipt of an e-mail inquiry.
Find More at http://exchanges.state.gov/jexchanges/faq.html