SFIP accepts applications year-round!
SFIP has a rolling application process and there are no due dates.
SFIP can process your visa application within 10 days!
Once the training site has been confirmed and the complete application has been received and approved by SFIP, the application can be expedited within 10 days.
For more details browse the Frequently Asked Questions
STEP 1 Prescreen to determine eligibility
All applicant's must be foreign nationals and meet all of the following basic eligibility requirements:Global Partners Program
(Please note: applicants are required to find their own training position)
- Found a training position of 32 hours per week at eligible training site with a Dun & Bradstreet Number, Employer Identification Number, and Worker's Compensation Insurance.
- At least 20 years of age at the time of application.
- Proficient in speaking, reading and writing English.
- Able to do visa interview with embassy/consulate in home country.
- Committed to returning to their home country to transfer their knowledge and skills back to their communities.
- Trainee Category: Hold a degree or professional certificate from a foreign post-secondary academic institution outside the United States AND at least one year of prior related work experience in his or her occupational field outside the United States, OR five years of work experience in his or her occupational field outside the United States.
- Intern Category: Currently enrolled in and pursuing studies at a foreign degree- or certificate-granting post-secondary academic institution outside the United States, OR graduated from such an institution no more than 12 months prior to his or her exchange visitor program start date.
(Please note: Training position placement available only for those meeting the following requirements)
- Demonstrated leadership skills and passion for social justice.
- Minimum 5 years managerial experience in the non-profit or public sector.
- Master's degree or minimum of 6 years post-secondary education.
- Proficient in speaking, reading and writing English.
- Able to do visa interview with embassy/consulate in home country.
- Committed to returning to their home country to transfer their knowledge and skills back to their communities.
If you believe that you are a strong candidate for one of SFIP's programs and meet all of the basic eligibility requirements, please submit the Pre-Screening Form Online.
After determining you have met the above criteria you will be contacted within 2 business days to proceed with the application process.
STEP 2 Application
If you've been invited to submit an application, you will receive access to the full package of application materials, instructions, and program materials through this password protected Application Webpage.
SFIP representatives are available to provide hands-on support to applicants and immigration lawyers to complete the application and prepare for the visa interview. If you'd like to speak with a representative, please call 415.896.0126 or email info@sfip.org.
STEP 3 Telephone interview
You will be contacted to schedule a telephone interview after receiving your completed application package. If the phone interview is satisfactory, SFIP and its partners will generate a DS 2019 form, an acceptance letter and package, which will be sent to your home country address. All applicants must return to his or her home country for the embassy interview (there are no exceptions).
Once the phone interview has been conducted and the complete application is received (including all of the necessary documentation) the standard process is up to 3 weeks. SFIP also offers an expedited visa processing service that guarantees its completion within 10 days for an additional fee.
STEP 4 Visa interview with US embassy/consulate
Once you receive the acceptance letter and package, you will make an appointment with the US Embassy/Consulate in your home country. Usually a decision to issue or decline a visa is made within 1 to 2 weeks, and you can leave for the US upon receipt of your approved visa.
STEP 5 Arrival & Orientation
Immediately upon arrival, you must notify SFIP to be updated in the SEVIS system and at that time you can schedule an orientation with an SFIP representative.
The orientation materials and session provide information about US culture, the Bay Area community, and referrals to resources that will help you transition smoothly and get the most out of your training experience. You will also be contacted to set up an orientation appointment with an SFIP representative and to attend a financial planning session at Citibank.
Citibank Potrero Hill
350 Rhode Island Street, Suite 140
San Francisco, CA 94103
t: 415-252-6700
New participants please browse the Program Resources for more information...
