The J-1 visa is a key route for international exchange, allowing foreign nationals to travel to the United States to participate in approved cultural, educational, and professional programs. It is used for internships, research, training, teaching, and seasonal work, providing participants the opportunity to gain experience while sharing their own culture with US communities. Unlike many other US visa categories, the J-1 cannot be applied for directly by an individual. Sponsorship by an authorised organisation is mandatory under US immigration law: the J-1 classification is created by INA §101(a)(15)(J), and the Exchange Visitor Program is overseen by the US Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA) and regulated in 22 CFR Part 62.

What this article is about: This guide explains how J-1 visa sponsorship works under US immigration law. It outlines what a J-1 sponsor is, the requirements for organisations to gain Department of State designation, how applicants secure sponsorship, and the respective responsibilities of both sponsors and participants. It also examines the process of obtaining the DS-2019 (Certificate of Eligibility for Exchange Visitor Status) and the compliance framework that underpins the Exchange Visitor Program, including SEVIS reporting and sponsor oversight by the Department of State.

The sponsorship framework is at the heart of the J-1 visa system. Sponsors act as intermediaries between the Department of State and the exchange visitor, ensuring the integrity of the program and safeguarding participant welfare. For employers, educational institutions, and participants, understanding the sponsorship process—and the legal duties embedded in 22 CFR Part 62—is essential to navigating this route successfully.

Section A: Understanding J1 Visa Sponsorship

1. What is a J1 Visa Sponsor?

A J-1 visa sponsor is an organisation formally designated by the US Department of State under 22 CFR Part 62 to administer specific exchange visitor programs. Sponsors can include universities, research institutions, private companies, cultural organisations, and government agencies. Their primary role is to recruit, screen, select, and support exchange visitors throughout the duration of their stay.

Sponsors also issue the DS-2019 form, which is the essential document an applicant must present when applying for a J-1 visa at a US consulate or embassy. Beyond documentation, sponsors have ongoing responsibilities for participant welfare, including orientation, access to support services, monitoring progress, and compliance reporting. Sponsors must designate at least one Responsible Officer (RO) and may appoint Alternate Responsible Officers (AROs) to manage SEVIS records and liaise with the Department of State.

2. Why Sponsorship is Required

The sponsorship requirement reflects the program’s design as an exchange, not as an immigration or purely employment-based route. By mandating sponsorship, the Department of State ensures that every J-1 participant is tied to a recognised program with clear objectives, oversight, and accountability mechanisms.

Applicants cannot apply for a J-1 visa independently; only a designated sponsor can issue the DS-2019. This requirement safeguards the legitimacy of the program, prevents misuse of the visa category for unauthorised employment, and ensures participants remain subject to sponsor monitoring in SEVIS. Sponsors also serve as the participant’s primary point of contact in the event of issues, emergencies, or compliance concerns.

3. Types of J1 Programs Requiring Sponsors

J-1 visa categories are diverse, and each requires sponsorship. Examples include:

• Interns and Trainees – Foreign nationals seeking structured training or internships in US companies to develop professional skills.
• Teachers – Qualified educators teaching full-time in accredited primary or secondary schools.
• Professors and Research Scholars – Academics engaging in teaching, lecturing, observing, or conducting research.
• Au Pairs – Individuals providing childcare services for US host families while engaging in cultural exchange.
• Summer Work Travel Participants – Students working in seasonal or temporary roles during university breaks.
• Camp Counselors – Participants working in US summer camps.
• Specialist and Physician Programs – Limited categories requiring specialised or government-designated sponsors.

Section A Summary
Sponsorship is not optional in the J-1 visa process; it is the legal foundation of the Exchange Visitor Program under INA §101(a)(15)(J) and 22 CFR Part 62. Sponsors serve as gatekeepers, ensuring only legitimate participants are admitted, and that cultural and educational exchange remains central. Applicants must always work through an authorised sponsor, and the type of program determines the sponsor’s role and obligations.

Section B: Eligibility to Become a J1 Visa Sponsor

1. Designated Sponsors

Only organisations formally designated by the US Department of State through the Office of Private Sector Exchange Designation can act as J-1 visa sponsors. To gain designation, an organisation must demonstrate that it has the resources, staffing, and structure to administer exchange programs effectively. Designation is granted under 22 CFR Part 62 and must generally be renewed every two years.

The designation process involves submitting a detailed application supported by evidence of:

• Organisational capacity, including financial stability and governance structures.
• Clear program objectives aligned with the aims of cultural and educational exchange.
• Compliance systems for monitoring participants and reporting to SEVIS.
• A history of ethical and lawful conduct, with no record of immigration or employment violations.

Designation is not permanent. Renewal requires review by the Department of State, and sponsors remain subject to oversight and compliance audits throughout the designation period.

2. Sponsor Obligations

Designated sponsors have extensive obligations at the start of the program and throughout the participant’s stay. These include:

• Pre-Arrival Orientation – Sponsors must provide participants with information about US culture, visa rules, and program requirements before departure.
• Issuing DS-2019 Forms – Sponsors are the only entities authorised to issue the Certificate of Eligibility, enabling participants to apply for the visa.
• Monitoring Participants – Ongoing oversight is required, including maintaining contact to confirm progress, wellbeing, and lawful status.
• Reporting in SEVIS – Sponsors must update the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System with accurate and timely data.
• Insurance Requirements – Sponsors must ensure participants have adequate health and accident insurance for the duration of their stay, as required by 22 CFR §62.14.
• Responsible Officers – Each sponsor must designate a Responsible Officer (RO) and may appoint Alternate Responsible Officers (AROs) to manage SEVIS records and compliance.

3. Compliance and Oversight

The Department of State exercises strict oversight of J-1 sponsors. Sponsors must file annual reports under 22 CFR §62.15, detailing program activities, participant numbers, and compliance measures. They must also maintain records demonstrating proper participant selection, screening, and monitoring.

The Department may conduct site visits and audits to assess program quality and adherence to regulations. Non-compliance can result in penalties ranging from corrective actions and fines to suspension or revocation of sponsor designation. For participants, working with a non-compliant sponsor may cause program disruption or termination, highlighting the importance of choosing a reputable organisation.

Section B Summary
Only designated organisations can act as J-1 visa sponsors, and the process of obtaining and maintaining designation is rigorous. Sponsors carry significant responsibilities, including participant support, compliance reporting, and program monitoring. Strong oversight under 22 CFR Part 62 ensures the system remains credible, while placing a duty on applicants to work only with compliant sponsors.

Section C: Sponsorship Process for Applicants

1. Finding a J1 Sponsor

Applicants must first identify an authorised sponsor that administers the type of exchange program they are eligible for. The US Department of State maintains an official, publicly accessible list of designated sponsors searchable by program category, such as internships, research, or teaching.

When selecting a sponsor, applicants should consider:

• Whether the sponsor is authorised for their specific program type.
• The reputation and track record of the sponsor.
• Program fees and the services offered, such as orientation and support.
• Additional requirements imposed by the sponsor, such as academic qualifications or language proficiency.

While some sponsors work with host organisations that provide the day-to-day program activity, only the designated sponsor has the legal authority to issue DS-2019 forms and maintain SEVIS records. Applicants should always verify that their sponsor is listed by the Department of State to avoid fraudulent intermediaries.

2. The DS-2019 Form

Once accepted into a program, the sponsor issues the DS-2019 Certificate of Eligibility for Exchange Visitor Status. This document is central to the visa process, as it provides:

• The participant’s personal details.
• The program category and purpose.
• The program start and end dates.
• Financial information demonstrating how the program will be funded.

Without a valid DS-2019, an applicant cannot proceed to the visa interview. The form is also used throughout the program to confirm lawful status and must be updated if circumstances change. Sponsors may also issue DS-2019s for eligible dependents (J-2 visa holders) if approved under the program.

3. Application Steps with a Sponsor

The typical process for an applicant is as follows:

• Apply to a Program – The individual submits an application to the sponsor for their chosen category.
• Assessment and Acceptance – The sponsor reviews the application, ensuring the applicant meets eligibility criteria.
• Payment of Fees – Sponsors may charge program fees but must disclose all fees in advance under 22 CFR §62.9(d).
• Issuance of DS-2019 – Once accepted, the sponsor issues the DS-2019.
• SEVIS Fee Payment – The applicant pays the SEVIS I-901 fee, linked to their DS-2019 record.
• Visa Interview – With the DS-2019 and SEVIS receipt, the applicant applies for the J-1 visa at a US embassy or consulate.

Sponsors often provide guidance throughout this process, including preparing applicants for the visa interview and advising on maintaining lawful status after entry to the US.

Section C Summary
For applicants, the sponsorship process begins with identifying an authorised sponsor, securing acceptance into a program, and obtaining the DS-2019 form. The sponsor acts as both gatekeeper and guide, ensuring compliance with US regulations and providing the documentation required to apply for the J-1 visa. Inclusion of dependents and clear disclosure of program fees are also governed by law under 22 CFR Part 62.

Section D: Responsibilities of J1 Visa Sponsors and Participants

1. Sponsor Responsibilities

Sponsors are entrusted with wide-ranging responsibilities that go beyond issuing DS-2019 forms. Their obligations under 22 CFR Part 62 include:

• Participant Orientation – Sponsors must provide cultural, legal, and practical information to help participants adjust to life in the US.
• Monitoring and Support – Sponsors must maintain regular contact with participants to confirm progress, wellbeing, and compliance with program terms.
• SEVIS Reporting – Sponsors must keep SEVIS records accurate and up to date, including changes in address, program dates, or program status.
• Health Insurance – Sponsors must ensure that all participants maintain adequate health and accident insurance throughout their stay, as mandated by 22 CFR §62.14.
• Emergency Assistance – Sponsors must provide a 24/7 emergency contact system for participants under 22 CFR §62.11(b).
• Compliance with Program Scope – Sponsors must ensure participants engage only in authorised activities consistent with their visa category.

2. Participant Responsibilities

J-1 visa holders also have clear obligations under US law and the terms of their program. These include:

• Maintaining Status – Participants must comply with visa conditions, including engaging only in authorised program activities.
• Reporting Changes – Participants must notify their sponsor of any changes in address, employment, or academic circumstances so SEVIS records can be updated.
• Insurance Compliance – Participants must maintain the required level of health and accident insurance.
• Cultural Exchange – Participants are expected to take part in cultural exchange activities, which are central to the purpose of the J-1 visa.
• Employment Restrictions – Participants may not undertake unauthorised employment outside their program scope. Doing so risks immediate termination in SEVIS.

3. Consequences of Non-Compliance

Non-compliance has serious consequences for both sponsors and participants:

• For Sponsors – Repeated or serious violations may lead to sanctions, corrective actions, fines, suspension, or loss of designation by the Department of State.
• For Participants – Breaches of visa conditions can result in termination of SEVIS records, immediate loss of legal status, and potential future visa refusals. Overstaying or unauthorised employment can also trigger re-entry bars to the US.

Section D Summary
Sponsors and participants share responsibility for upholding the rules of the J-1 visa program. Sponsors must provide oversight, support, insurance, and compliance reporting, while participants must comply with visa conditions and program requirements. Non-compliance by either party can result in program termination, loss of status, or sanctions, making full adherence to 22 CFR Part 62 essential.

FAQs

Can I apply for a J1 visa without a sponsor?
No. A sponsor is legally required for all J-1 visa applications. Only a designated sponsor, authorised under 22 CFR Part 62, can issue the DS-2019 form that is mandatory for the visa interview.

How do I know if my J1 sponsor is legitimate?
The US Department of State maintains an official list of designated sponsors, available on its website. Applicants should always verify their sponsor against this list to confirm legitimacy.

What costs are involved in securing sponsorship?
Program fees vary depending on the sponsor, program type, and duration. Sponsors must disclose all fees and costs up front under 22 CFR §62.9(d). In addition, applicants must pay the SEVIS I-901 fee and the US embassy or consulate’s visa application fee.

Can sponsors withdraw sponsorship once granted?
Yes. If a participant fails to comply with program rules, or if circumstances require it, a sponsor may terminate the DS-2019. This termination must be reported immediately in SEVIS and results in loss of lawful status in the US.

What is the difference between a sponsor and a host organisation?
The sponsor is the organisation designated by the Department of State to administer the program, issue DS-2019 forms, and monitor compliance. A host organisation is the site where the participant undertakes their program activities, such as a university, school, or company. In some cases, the sponsor and host are the same entity, but often they are separate.

Conclusion

The J-1 visa sponsorship system is central to the functioning of the US Exchange Visitor Program. Without an authorised sponsor, individuals cannot obtain a J-1 visa or participate in cultural, educational, and professional exchange opportunities in the United States. Sponsorship is not optional: it is a legal requirement under INA §101(a)(15)(J) and the regulations in 22 CFR Part 62.

Sponsors act as administrators and guardians of the program, ensuring compliance with immigration law, protecting the welfare of participants, and upholding the broader goals of international exchange. Their role extends beyond paperwork, encompassing orientation, monitoring, SEVIS reporting, and ensuring participants remain within their program scope.

For applicants, the process begins with finding a legitimate sponsor, securing acceptance into a program, and obtaining the DS-2019 form. For sponsors, the responsibilities include ongoing support, oversight, and compliance reporting to maintain designation. Both sponsors and participants share a binding duty to comply with the Exchange Visitor Program’s rules and objectives.

Employers, educational institutions, and cultural organisations seeking to engage with the J-1 visa should understand the sponsorship framework and its legal implications. Careful selection of a designated sponsor, coupled with strict compliance, is the foundation of a successful and lawful exchange experience.

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Nita Upadhye

Founder & Principal Attorney Nita Nicole Upadhye is a recognized leader in the field of US business immigration law, (The Legal 500, Chambers & Partners, Who's Who Legal and AILA) and an experienced and trusted advisor to large multinational corporates through to SMEs. She provides strategic immigration advice and specialist application support to corporations and professionals, entrepreneurs, investors, artists, actors and athletes from across the globe to meet their US-bound talent mobility needs.

Nita is an active public speaker, thought leader, immigration commentator, and immigration policy contributor and regularly hosts training sessions for employers and HR professionals.

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