J-1 Visa Resources for Employers
Everything you need to successfully host J-1 exchange visitors. Access guides, compliance tools, and expert support for teachers, interns, and trainees.
As a J-1 host organization or school, you play a vital role in cultural exchange. Whether you're hosting international teachers in K-12 classrooms or providing training opportunities for interns and trainees, having the right resources ensures program success. We've compiled comprehensive materials to guide you through every stage of hosting exchange visitors, from initial onboarding to program completion.
Comprehensive guides for K-12 schools hosting J-1 teachers, including onboarding checklists and cultural activity planning.
Training plan templates, compliance guidelines, and best practices for businesses hosting J-1 interns and trainees.
Stay compliant with federal regulations. Access J-1 program requirements, reporting obligations, and regular updates.
What are my responsibilities as a J-1 host organization?
As a host organization, you must provide structured on-the-job training aligned with Form DS-7002, ensure continuous worksite supervision, facilitate cultural exchange activities, maintain appropriate worker's compensation insurance, complete monthly evaluations, and report any program changes to J1X within 10 days. You cannot assign J-1 participants to unskilled labor positions or roles involving primary childcare, elder care, or direct patient care.
How quickly can J1X process a J-1 visa application?
J1X offers industry-leading processing speed with guaranteed 48-hour processing time for complete applications. Our streamlined system and dedicated account managers ensure your candidates receive Form DS-2019 quickly, allowing them to schedule consular interviews without delay.
What is Form DS-7002 and who completes it?
Form DS-7002 is the Training/Internship Placement Plan required for J-1 interns and trainees. It outlines specific training objectives, knowledge areas to be covered, and learning goals. J1X assists with drafting this document, which must be signed by the host organization, the exchange visitor, and our designated sponsor representative before Form DS-2019 can be issued.
Can I hire a J-1 exchange visitor for a permanent position?
No. The J-1 visa program is designed exclusively for cultural exchange and professional development, not as a pathway to permanent employment. J-1 participants must return to their home country upon program completion. Using the program as a substitute for ordinary employment violates federal regulations and jeopardizes your organization's future eligibility.
What insurance coverage is required for J-1 participants?
All J-1 exchange visitors must maintain medical insurance throughout their program with minimum coverage of $100,000 per accident or illness, $25,000 for repatriation of remains, and $50,000 for medical evacuation. J1X provides compliant insurance coverage as part of our program fees, though some host organizations may supplement with additional benefits.
How do I report changes to a participant's program?
Report any significant changes—including address updates, worksite changes, early termination, or program extensions—through your dedicated J1X account manager or via the Orion J-1 Visa Management Information System. Most changes must be reported within 10 business days to maintain compliance.
What cultural exchange activities should we provide?
Cultural activities should expose exchange visitors to American culture, history, and society. Examples include attending local festivals, visiting historical sites, participating in community service, hosting cultural presentation sessions, or organizing team-building activities. J1X provides detailed activity planning guides and documentation templates.
Can we compensate J-1 teachers differently than U.S. teachers?
No. J-1 teachers must receive compensation commensurate with similarly-situated U.S. teachers in your school or district, including benefits, responsibilities, and working conditions. This ensures program integrity and prevents displacement of American workers.
What support does J1X provide to host schools?
We provide candidate screening, visa processing, orientation, compliance guidance, dedicated account management, and ongoing support throughout the program.
What are the total costs for teachers participating in the program?
Initial fees include $1,500 processing/academic fee, $220 SEVIS fee, and $95 monthly program insurance. Additional costs include visa fees, licensing, and living expenses. Third-party placement agent fees vary.
Need Personalized Support for Your Organization?
Connect with our employer services team to discuss your specific needs, access custom resources, or schedule a consultation.
