The J-1 visa’s formal name is the Exchange Visitor Program and is governed by the U.S. Department of State. 

The Program was created to “…promote mutual understanding between the people of the United States and other countries by means of educational and cultural exchange […]”. Its purpose is to allow the J visa holder(s) to visit the U.S. to gain knowledge, skills, and ideas, and to then return to their home country and share what they have acquired during their stay. 

J-1 Research Scholars must establish “nonimmigrant intent.” All J visa holders must prove their intent to return to their home country at the completion of the program. 

A J-1 Research Scholar is an individual primarily conducting research, observing, or consulting in connection with a research project or plan. 

The J-1 Research Scholar category has a minimum stay of three (3) weeks, and a maximum continuous stay of five (5) years. The period begins with the start date on the Form DS-2019 and remains available five years from that date or the date of the J-1 program’s conclusion. 

Meharry’s Exchange Visitor Program is reviewed by the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs at the State Department every two years. To learn more about how the Department of State runs the J Exchange Visitor Program, please watch a short video or read the information posted on their website. You can also read their Welcome Brochure, which summarizes many of your rights as an Exchange Visitor.