Once you have obtained student intern status at OHIO, you must comply with specific requirements and regulations to maintain your status as a J scholar.
J-1 Student Intern Visa
The J-1 Exchange Visitor non-immigrant visa was created for individuals approved to participate in exchange programs in the United States. Ohio University has permission to issue visa paperwork for a number of exchange visitor categories. The Student Intern Category is intended to support internships that are part of a foreign degree program.
Category Details
Specific details apply to individuals with a J-1 Exchange Visitor Visa:
- Minimum duration is three weeks
- Maximum duration is 1 year
- The visitor must be invited by a host department
- The visitor must currently be pursuing a degree at an accredited post-secondary academic institution outside of the U.S.
- The internship at OHIO must fulfill the educational objectives for the degree program at the home institution
- In addition to the standard J scholar paperwork, form DS 7002 undefined must be completed by the visitor and the host professor
Two-Year Home Residence Requirement
Some J-1 Exchange Visitors (and their dependents) will be subject to the Two-Year Home Residence Requirement, also known as INA 212(e).
If subject, this rule requires the J visa holder to spend a total of two years in their home country before becoming eligible to obtain H, K, or L visa status, or to become a Permanent Resident of the U.S. It also prevents exchange visitors from applying for a change of status within the U.S.
When Is a J Student Intern Subject to a 212(e)?
There are several ways that a J scholar may become subject to the 212(e):
- The J program is financed directly by the U.S. government
- The J program is financed by the visitor’s home government
- The exchange visitor’s country and field are designated on the Exchange Visitor Skills List
Can I Waive the Two-Year Home Residence Reqirement?
In some circumstances it is possible to request a waiver of the Two Year Home Residence Requirement. The ISSS team is not able to advise on this process.
You can find additional details and instructions on the Department of State website.