Authorization to Become an Exchange Visitor Sponsor (J-1)
Organizations wishing to become an Exchange Visitor (EV) Sponsor can apply to the US Department of State for Exchange Visitor Sponsor designation. Two primary factors are considered by the State Department in evaluating applications: 1) at least one year of previous experience in the field of international exchange on the part of a “Responsible Official” in the organization, and 2) the financial status of the organization.
There are two broad categories of exchange visitors:
- Government and Academic Programs, which include the following specific EV designations:
- Government Visitor
- Professor
- Research Scholar
- Short-term Scholar
- Specialist
- Student (College/University)
- Private Sector Programs, which include the following specific EV designations:
- Alien Physician
- Au Pair
- Camp Counselor
- Intern
- Student (Secondary)
- Summer Work (Travel)
- Teacher
- Trainee
Some Exchange Visitor categories can be applied for on the same application, while others require a separate application.
Vandeventer Black’s Immigration Law Group provides consultation to qualified organizations who wish to apply for authorization for one or more Exchange Visitor categories. Applicants will benefit by receiving assistance in proper completion of the Form DS-3036 Exchange Visitor Program Application along with pre-submission review of the extensive supplementary documentation required to accompany the Application.
There is no better way to promote mutual understanding between the people of the United States and the people of other countries than by sponsoring Exchange Visitors. International educational and cultural exchanges are one of the most effective means of developing lasting and meaningful relationships between individuals, communities, and people groups. Exchange Visitor hosts provide a valuable opportunity for others to experience the United States and our way of life.
Contact the Immigration Law Group for more information about applying for US DOS authorization to host Exchange Visitors.
Call 757.446.8683 or Email Art Serratelli.