Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Processing Time
How long will it take for my visa to be processed once I submit a complete application?
If you have paid for expedited processing, you will receive your DS-2019 Form and additional paperwork within 10 days at your mailing address in your home country. Standard processing is around 4 weeks.
Do I need an immigration lawyer to process my J-1 application?
No, many applicants apply to our programs directly. Applicants may also chose to hire an immigration attorney to complete the application, and we are very happy to work with applicants and their attorneys.
Is there someone I can contact to check the status of my application?
You may check the status of your application at any time by contacting a staff member at info@sfip.org / 415.896.0126.
I’ve heard the H-1B process can be expensive and challenging. Is the J-1 application process as difficult?
In general, the J-1 application process is easier, faster and less expensive than the H-1B process. Also because H-1B visas are selected by a lottery and the number is capped, many petitions are not granted.
The cost of a J-1 visa ranges from $800-$2000 compared to the H-1B application, which can range from $5000-$6000 with required lawyers fees and in most cases H-1B applicants the lawyer fees are non-refundable if the petition is not granted.
Participant Eligibility
What are the basic criteria for eligibility?
All applicant's must be foreign nationals and meet all of the following basic eligibility requirements:
Global Partners Program
- 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.
- Demonstrated leadership skills and passion for social justice.
- Minimum 5 years managerial experience in the nonprofit 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.
Do I need to have a four-year degree for the Global Partners Program (trainee category)?
No. A two-year degree is acceptable provided that you have a diploma. However, completion of two or three years of a four-year program without a diploma does not meet the criteria. At least one of your degrees must have been completed outside the US. Five years work experience in your occupational field outside the US may substitute for the degree.
Is there a minimum requirement for work experience?
We prefer candidates to have at least one year of experience outside the US, but may make exceptions for graduate student applicants.
How will my English skills be evaluated?
For those applying from countries where English is not the first language, a TOEFL score may be required if it is not waived by CIPUSA during the phone interview. You must have a score of 500 or higher on the written test or a 250 or higher on the computer-based test. However, the Test of Spoken English (TSE) with a score of 50 or higher is preferred.
Can I transfer to a J-1 visa from another visa (tourist, student, OPT, etc)?
Yes, we accept such applications. But you will have to return to your home country in order to complete the visa interview at your US Embassy/Consulate.
Training Site Eligibility
What are the requirements/expectations of training sites?
- Work with SFIP and the participant to design a challenging and mutually beneficial training plan
- Identify an appropriate mentor/supervisor to provide direction and continuous support to the participant.
- Assess the learning objectives and progress of the participant by completing the online Mid-Evaluation and Final Evaluation.
- Complete all application forms and provide the following materials: DUN and Bradstreet Number, Employer Identification Number (IEN), and proof of a Workers Compensation Insurance Policy.
- Host a brief meeting with SFIP (Site visits are required for all new training sites with fewer than 25 employees or less than three million dollars in annual revenue)
Is there a minimum or maximum number of work hours per week?
Employees are required to work at least 32 hours per week and a maximum of 40 hours per week.
Is there a cap on the number of J-1 participants a training site can host?
No. Unlike the H1-B visa, there is no cap on the number of J-1 training participants a training site or employer can host.
Application Procedures
Am I really required to interview for the visa in my home country?
Yes, all applicants for J-1 visa programs must conduct the interview in their home country or country of residence.
How far in advance should I make the appointment for my interview with the US Embassy/Consulate?
The amount of time you will be required to wait for an interview varies from country to country. We recommend calling the embassy/consulate as soon as you receive your DS-2019 form in order to ask these logistical questions and set up an interview.
Are faxed/emailed applications forms okay, or do you need originals?
We require the original hardcopy documents with signatures to be submitted by mail.
What is the deadline for payment of fees?
All fees must be paid in full before we can send the J-1 sponsorship forms (DS 2019). We accept payment by check from an American based organization or money order, payable to "San Francisco International Program."
By when do I have to pay my SEVIS fee?
You are required to pay your SEVIS fee prior to interviewing with the US Consulate/Embassy in your home country. This fee can be included in your application payment, or you can pay directly online.
If my visa is denied or I decide to not follow through with my application but have paid the fee, can I be refunded?
SFIP cannot guarantee the successful outcome of every application. We do offer a partial refund in certain cases. Please contact SFIP to learn more about our refund policy. Unfortunately, SFIP cannot process appeals to reverse decisions, or process administrative or court reviews.
Programs & Training Areas
What is the difference between the Core and Global Partners Program?
Besides the program fee, the main difference between the programs is that the Core Program is designed to help senior and executive level professionals find a training position within a nonprofit or public sector agency. SFIP helps match the participants with training sites and arranges for a home-stay.
The Global Partners Program is a self-placement program that assists applicants that have already found a training position within a nonprofit, public or private sector agency. This program is open to international professionals in all stages of their career and it does not include a home-stay program.
Do Core applicants have to be citizens of developing countries, and receive training in the non-profit sector?
No. Any applicant who meets the eligibility requirements and seeks placement in the nonprofit sector through our agency would participate in the Core program.
Which areas of professional training qualify?
- Architecture
- Agriculture*
- Business
- Commerce
- Communications
- Education*
- Engineering
- Finance
- Health Related Occupations*
- Hospitality*
- Information Media
- Journalism
- Law
- Library Science
- Management
- Public Administration
- Social Services and Counseling*
- Social Work
- Special Education
*What types of health-related occupations qualify?
SFIP can provide you with positions in health-related occupations, such as learning how to create and use medical devices or learning about program planning and implementation in health education. However, SFIP regretfully cannot offer training programs that involve direct patient care or physical interaction with patients (for social workers, counselors, dentists, nurses, doctors, veterinarians).
*What types of education work qualify?
SFIP can arrange for training in curriculum development and educational administration. However, SFIP regretfully cannot offer programs that involve direct teaching or interaction with students.
*What other training fields are ineligible?
SFIP cannot accommodate international professionals in physical education (one-on-one training such as personal trainers), students, Au Pairs, or unskilled laborers. Agriculture fields have been limited to a training of maximum of 12 months. Hospitality field training programs are limited to a maximum of 12 months; all programs longer than six months must have at least three departmental rotations.
I will be working at a nursing home, but not directly with patients. Although there are limitations for sponsorship of health-related occupations, can I apply within a different category?
If your duties are varied, you may apply under a different field, such as Administration/Management.
I acquired a training position creating tennis programs at a local health club. Would these activities be covered by sponsorship?
Unfortunately, recreational activities do not fall within any of the valid categories for sponsorship.
Can I train at two sites simultaneously? Consecutively? Will I need two DS 2019 forms? Two training plans?
No. You may only train at one site at a time, but may train at two different sites consecutively as long as the positions are in the same field.
What if I decide to transfer to a different training organization?Any applicant can change training sites as long as s/he will be training in the same field listed on her/his original DS-2019 Form. The process is simple and can take place in about 1 week. In order to do so, the following forms must be submitted to us (by email, fax, or mail):
- New DS-7002 Training Plan Form, to completed and signed by both the participant and the new training site.
- Letter of Agreement B (Between SFIP and new training site)
Length of Training
How long can I be on a J-1 training visa?
The maximum length of a J-1 training visa is 18 months and the minimum is three weeks.
Can I extend my training program?
SFIP/CIPUSA will consider extensions if the participant and training site can prove the need for additional training. SFIP/CIPUSA cannot issue an extension beyond the 18-month program limit.
What if I decided to switch to another visa, or leave the country for another career opportunity?
Any participant or training site can terminate their training. Please request an Early Termination Notice from SFIP, which must be completed and returned promptly.
Funding and Compensation
Will I receive any financial compensation for my training?
Almost all participants receive some form of compensation for their training program, however the training sites are not obligated to provide a salary or benefits.
Core Program participants sometimes receive a small living allowance or stipend to cover basic personal expenses, along with free room and board with a host family. Global Partner participants negotiate compensation directly with their training sites and many do receive competitive salaries.
If I’m terminated from my training position will my employer be liable to pay for my relocation costs?
No. Under J-1 visa regulations training sites are not liable for a J-1 visa holder's relocation costs.
What if I’m able to sponsor myself?
Applicants that are able to sponsor themselves are strongly encouraged to apply--it may help to expedite finding a placement in a training site.
Where should I look for funding resources if I want to fund my own training program?
If you are interested in funding your own training program or in finding organizations that would like to help sponsor a professional exchange program, you can find resources through your employer or at The Foundation Center, or The Rotary Foundation.
Health Insurance
Is health insurance required by the J-1 visa?
Yes, J-1 visa holders and J-2 dependents are required to have health insurance coverage for the entire length of the training program, which meets the federal regulation 22 CFR 62.14:
- Medical benefits of at least $50,000 per accident or illness;
- Repatriation of remains in the amount of $7,500;
- Expenses associated with the medical evacuation of the exchange visitor to his or her home country in the amount of $10,000;
- Prescription drugs 100% coverage;
- A deductible not to exceed $500 per accident or illness; and,
- An insurance policy secured to meet the benefits requirements must be underwritten by an insurance corporation with an A.M. Best rating of "A-" or above, an Insurance Solvency International, Ltd. (ISI) rating of "A-I" or above, a Standard and Poor's Claims Paying Ability rating of "A-" or above, or a Weiss Research, Inc. rating of B+ or above.
Can I purchase health insurance through SFIP?
Participants can purchase insurance and repatriation coverage through CIPUSA, which offers the required US Department of State J-1 visa health insurance through HTH Worldwide Insurance.
Can I continue to use my own health insurance plan?
Yes, you can opt to continue existing coverage or carry your own health insurance plans if they fulfill the health insurance requirements stipulated by the federal regulations. However, repatriation coverage is not typically included in most health insurance plans. If you opt to use your own health insurance all information about your coverage should be translated into English and submitted with the application.
In regards to completing the Certificate of Health, do you have a list of approved physicians within each country? Do I have to send the form with the rest of the application?
Any licensed physician may complete your Certificate of Health, which can be mailed with the application or separately.
What do I need from the training site to show the coverage of their medical insurance policy?
SFIP requires you to submit a copy of the insurance card or a copy of the basic insurance information from the training site.
Does the health insurance premium need to be paid in full up front? I’m planning to stay 18 months, do I have to pay the total premium up front?
Yes, you must pay the entire premium before beginning the program.
J-1 Visa Regulations
What is the Exchange Program?
■ The Exchange Visitor Program - US State Department
■ J-1 Visa Information - U.S. State Department
What are the policies and procedures for entering and leaving the U.S.?
You have 30 days before and after the initial date on the DS 2019 form for arrival in the US. The DS 2019 form is needed in order to enter the country and will be signed by immigration services at the port of entry. (Final departure must be within 30 days of the final date on the DS2019 form.)
If I have been on a previous J-1 visa may I apply again?
Yes. Participants have the opportunity to come back on a J-1 intern or training visa as long as they meet the requirements of the regulations. But all participants from any country wishing to return on a J-1 training or intern visa are subject to a 2-year home residency requirement.
Am I required to leave the US upon completion of my training program?
J-1 visas are issued to non-immigrant exchange visitors who intend to return to his or her country of citizenship. The two-year home country residence requirement (rule 212e) is a restriction unique to the J-1 visa. The reason for the requirement is to promote mutual cultural exchange by way of the visitor returning to his/her country to share information, knowledge and skills acquired through the training. However, in some cases this rule can be waived.
Can I obtain a multiple entry visa in order to leave and return to the U.S. during the program?
Yes. If the “Entries” designation on your visa in the passport is coded with “M” for “multiple entry” then you are allowed to go outside the US and then return again during the active dates of the J-1 visa. For applicants with single-entry visas, you can arrange to send your DS 2019 form to CIPUSA to receive multiple entry designation. Arrangements should be done at least two weeks prior to departure. Applicants are responsible for any postage fees. The signed and approved DS 2019 form should be carried with you in order to enter or exit the country. The maximum time a participant is able to leave the country on a multiple entry visa would be three weeks as the J-1 regulations state that you cannot be away from your training site for more than three weeks at a time. This would apply to vacations in the US as well.
If I am a Canadian citizen do I need to apply through the U.S. Embassy or Consulate?
No, if you are applying from Canada you do not need to apply for a J-1 visa through the US Embassy or Consulate office. You can apply for a visa at the airport or at the border if you are driving to the US Please check with your local US consulate for information.
I’m currently in the US on a tourist visa, F-1 OPT, student visa. Can I apply for a J-1 visa through SFIP while I’m here?
Yes, you are eligible to apply for a J-1 visa while on other types of visas and you may begin the application process while still in the U.S. You will need to provide copies of all your visas to the US in your application materials. However, our program requires that you complete the process in your country of origin. The DS2019 and other relevant documents will only be sent to your home country. You must be interviewed at the U.S. Consulate or Embassy in your country in order to fulfill the requirements for the J-1 visa.
I’d like to leave the country for the holidays. What is the procedure?
If you would like to travel overseas you must contact SFIP and send the following materials to the J-1 sponsoring agency:
- Brief letter stating when you’ll be out of the country and why;
- DS 2019 form to sign and validate the travel box as your sponsor; and
- Pre-addressed and pre-paid envelope or express mail package.
J-2 Visa Regulations
What is a J-2 visa?
On a J-2 visa you may enter the US along with your J-1 spouse or parent; travel in and out of the US or remain in the US continuously as long as you are in status; and you may work or study in the US.
What are the limitations of the J-2 visa?
On a J-2 visa you are dependent on the status of the prinicpal J-1 visa holder; and you will only be able to apply for a work permit after your arrival to the US.
How long can I stay in the US on a J-2 visa?
You may stay in the US as long as the principal J-1 visa holder has valid status.
Can I work on a J-2 visa?
Yes. You may work in the US on a J-2 visa, if you receive special permission from the USCIS and the earnings are not needed to support the principal J-1 holder.
Can I bring my family with me while on a SFIP program?
Yes. However, SFIP/CIPUSA can only issue J-2 visas for the family and spouses of participants of the Global Partners Program.
Does SFIP require a separate application form to sponsor dependents on a J-2 visa?
They will only need to complete the sections on the J-1 application under dependents. It’s not required that they send photos or copies of passports, but SFIP would appreciate these items.
Arrival & Orientation
How do I become active in the SEVIS system?
You are required to contact both CIPUSA and SFIP upon your arrival in the US CIPUSA will subsequently update your status in SEVIS upon receiving this confirmation.
What does orientation entail?
Upon your arrival in the US, please contact SFIP to schedule an orientation. It’s an informal meeting and it will give you an opportunity to ask questions regarding life in the Bay Area or logistics of the program. You will also be provided with orientation materials prior to this meeting.
Will my training organization be given orientation materials regarding the program as well?
Yes, the training site will be contacted by SFIP and will receive orientation materials.
Am I required to participate in group cultural activities?
You are strongly encouraged to attend SFIP events on a regular basis. They’re a wonderful opportunity to network and meet other participants from around the world.
Are the mid- and endpoint evaluations conducted by SFIP at the training site or elsewhere?
SFIP will schedule two due dates with you for submission of your mid- and final evaluations. You are responsible for completing these evaluations with your training site.
Am I required to get a social security card?
You will need a social security card in order to open a bank account, for taxes, and to obtain a driver’s license. However, you must be activated in the SEVIS system at least ten days before applying for your card. US Department of Social Security Administration
Upon completion is the certificate of completion prepared by SFIP or by the training organization?
The certificate of completion is prepared for you by SFIP.
Logistical Resources
2-1-1 is an easy to remember telephone number that, where available, connects people with important community services and volunteer opportunities.
How is the weather?
How do I find housing/apartments?
■ Servas International - As an international traveler more than 15,000 homes are open to you!
■ CouchSurfing - As an international traveler more than 250,000 couches are open to you!
■ International House - International House at UC Berkeley is a multi-cultural residence and program center serving students, the local community and alumni worldwide.
■ Northern California Hostels - A nonprofit network of 10 affordable accommodations providing top-quality service, cleanliness, and security to guests in San Francisco, Sacramento, and other scenic Northern California locations.
■ craigslist - Online local classifieds with housing listings.
How do I learn about the public transportation system?
What if I want to drive, buy a car, get insured?
■ California Department of Motor Vehicles
■ California providers of car insurance
■ The Better Business Bureau
What are my rights as a nonimmigrant? Where can I find legal services?
■ Bay Area Immigrant Rights Coalition
How do I connect with my consulate/embassy?
■ Foreign government representatives in Northern California
Cultural & Community Resources
■ craigslist (find housing, jobs, community activities, stuff for sale)
■ SFstation (online city guide to Arts, Culture, Entertainment, Food, Shopping, and Urban Living)
■ FREE Stanford University Courses (iTunes - podcast)
■ FREE Berkeley University Courses (iTunes - podcast)
■ FREE open culture (iTunes - podcasts)
■ The Women's Building
Tax Regulations for J-1/J-2 Visa Holders
How can I learn about paying taxes in the U.S.?
The following are several helpful websites for tax information:
■ Taxback
■ US Tax Guide for Aliens
■ 2007 Tax Information from SFIP/CIPUSA
Can I file my taxes online?
Yes, CINTAX is a web-based tax preparation program designed exclusively for international students, scholars, teachers, researchers, trainees and their dependents who had non-resident status in the U.S.
The following is additional information regarding paying taxes in the US:
Tax Status
There are a number of factors determining the tax status of an international participant. The tax status may change during the participant's stay in the US. The following three factors need to be determined for each calendar year of the participant's stay:
1. Non-resident or Resident Alien
The IRS requires that the participant provide information to the employer to determine this status.
■ Step 1: List the calendar years in which the participant has previously been in the US on a J 1 visa during the last six years.
■ Step 2: Add to the list the calendar years the participant will be with your institution on the current J-1 visa.
■ Step 3: Delete the earliest two years.
■ Step 4: If the current year is no longer on the list, the participant will be taxed as a non-resident alien. Go to step 9.
■ Step 5: Determine the total number of days the participant will be in the United States during the current calendar year. ** If the Participant will be in the United States for less than 31 days in the current calendar year, the status is non resident alien for tax purposes. If so go to step 9.
■ Step 6: If the previous calendar year is still on the list, determine the total number of days during that calendar year the participant was in the United States. Divided this number by 3. This result will later be used in step 8.
■ Step 7: If the list still shows two calendar years ago, determine the total of days the participant was in the United States during that year. Divide this number by 6.
■ Step 8: Add the resulting numbers in steps 5, 6, and 7. (All of the days in the current year, +1/3 of the days in last year, 1/6 of the days two years ago). If the result is less than 183, the participant is taxed for this calendar year as a non-resident alien. If the result is 183 or more, the participant is taxed as a resident alien.
■ Step 9: If the participant is still here on next January 1, repeat from step 1.
2. What is the withholding rate?
Non-resident alien J 1 visa participants are exempt from FICA and FUTA taxes. The wages, stipends, and pocket money are taxed at the same graduated rate as citizens. Resident alien J 1 visa holders should have FICA or FUTA taxes withheld, unless tax treaty conditions apply.
3. Tax Treaties
Many international participants will be from countries that have negotiated treaties with the US affect whether the participant pays US Federal taxes. Participants who are claiming US tax exemption for all or part of their US income must give the employer a completed IRS Form 8233 each calendar year. The employer must verify the exemption exists before adjusting any withholding amounts. Tax treaties constantly change. IRS Publication 901: US Tax Treaties can be used to verify a form 8233 claim.
Currently, tax treaties may affect participants from the following countries: Armenia, Austria, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Belgium, Canada, China (People's Republic), Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Egypt, France, Georgia, Germany, Greece, Iceland, Indonesia, Japan, Korea (South), Kyrgyzstan, Luxembourg, Moldova, Morocco, Netherlands, Norway, Pakistan, Poland, Romania, Slovak Republic, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Tajikistan, Trinidad and Tobago, Tunisia, Turkmenistan, Ukraine, and Uzbekistan.
For more information please contact SFIP.
NOTE: In preparation of this site, every effort has been made to offer the most current, correct, and clearly expressed information possible. Nevertheless, inadvertent errors in information may occur. SFIP does not assume any responsibility or liability for any information, communications or materials available at such linked sites, or at any link contained in a linked site. SFIP does not intend these third party links to be referrals or endorsements of the linked entities by SFIP, and are provided for convenience only. Each individual site has its own set of policies about what information is appropriate for public access. You assume sole responsibility for use of third party links and pointers.