Exchange visitor visa (J-1): Indian citizen in India → United States
Indian citizens approved to take part in a US exchange visitor program need a J visa — get accepted by a designated program sponsor and receive a Form DS-2019, pay the SEVIS I-901 fee, complete the DS-160, and attend an interview at the US embassy or consulate where you live.
US nonimmigrant exchange visitor (J) visa for individuals approved to participate in exchange visitor programs in the United States.
- Validity
- Validity is set by your nationality's reciprocity schedule; the J visa is issued for the duration of your approved exchange visitor program as shown on your Form DS-2019.
- Entries
- Single or multiple entry, depending on your nationality's reciprocity schedule.
- Max stay per visit
- Admitted for the duration of your exchange program, as determined by a CBP officer at the port of entry.
When to start
Start 45 days–3 months before your travel date.
Apply for an exchange visitor program through a pre-approved organization in the United States and be accepted into a qualifying program.
After your program sponsor enters your information in SEVIS, they will send you the DS-2019 form; you must pay the SEVIS I-901 fee.
Fill in Form DS-160 online, upload your photo, and print the confirmation page to bring to your interview.
Book an interview at the US Embassy or Consulate in the country where you live; wait times vary, so apply early.
A consular officer interviews you to decide whether you qualify for the exchange visitor visa.
What you'll need
- Valid passport — Passport valid for at least six months after your period of stay in the United States. ✓ verified
- DS-160 confirmation page — The printed Nonimmigrant Visa Application, Form DS-160 confirmation page. ✓ verified
- Form DS-2019 — Certificate of Eligibility for Exchange Visitor Status, Form DS-2019, sent to you by your program sponsor. ✓ verified
Where you'll apply
Indian citizens apply at the US Embassy or Consulate with jurisdiction over where they live; wait times for interview appointments vary, so apply early.
Fees
| Visa application fee (MRV) | USD 185 |
Gotchas to watch
- Exchange Visitors cannot travel on the Visa Waiver Program or with Visitor (B1/B2) Visas.
- A visa does not guarantee entry into the United States. A visa only allows a foreign citizen to travel to a U.S. port-of-entry and request permission to enter the United States.