The J-1 VISA

American Youth Work Center sponsors our trainees using the J-1 Visa.

The J-1 visa is for the non-immigrants to come to the U.S. for: teaching, studying, researching, consulting, demonstrating special skills or receiving training. This visa limits you to a maximum of 18 months of practical training in the USA plus one month of travel in the US. THERE ARE NO EXCEPTIONS TO THIS RULE UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCE.

The J-1 Visa is not a blanket work permit to shop around for a job in the USA:

• You may only receive paid training from your TSA.
• You cannot change your placement site once you are in theUS.
• You cannot accept additional paid employment once you are in the US (volunteer work is okay).
• It is difficult if not impossible to change from a J-1 visa to any other visa.

J-1 visas cannot be issued back to back. Once you have completed your 18-months of practical training you cannot re-apply for the same type of J-1 visa.

IF YOU ARE INTERESTED IN STAYING IN THE USA LONGER THAN 18 MONTHS THIS PROGRAM IS NOT FOR YOU.

The J-2 visa is issued to legal spouses of AYWC’s J-1 visa holders. It permits spouses to obtain employment in their chosen field after obtaining permission from the local US immigration office. Documentation of marriage and birth certificate is required before J-2 visas can be issued. AYWC does not offer J-2 visas for children.