Other Immigration Matters

There are countless avenues to immigrate to the United States including student visas, visitor exchange visas, asylum, deferred action. Read more to see if any of these fit your specific situation.

Must-Know Facts

  • The J-1 visa is for individuals visiting the U.S. temporarily to participate in an approved exchange program for skills and knowledge acquisition.
  • Unlike H-1B visas, J-1 applicants are sponsored by approved programs—not employers.
  • Essential J-1 Visa Documents include: DS-2019, DS-7002, DS-160, Valid Passport, a photograph meeting DOS requirements, and Proof of Financial and Home Ties
  • Certain J-1 categories must return to their home country for 2 years unless they obtain a waiver.

Other Immigration Matters Articles

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    J-1 Visa Documents Checklist Guide

    Published on March 18, 2025

    The J-1 exchange visitor visa is for applicants who are visiting the U.S. temporarily to participate in an approved program for the acquisition of skills and knowledge before returning home to their home country. Unlike other nonimmigrant work visas, J-1 applicants are not sponsored by employers; they are sponsored by certain programs approved by the…

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    J1 Waiver Denied? Here’s What to Do

    Published on March 17, 2025

    J1 Visas are issued to individuals who the United States government approves to work or participate in cultural exchange visitor programs. There is a foreign residency requirement that J-1 visa holders may be subject to, after completing their program. If you have a J1 visa waiver denied or approved you may have other options available.

  • This image represents someone being denied a visa approval.

    What Section 214(b) Visa Denial Means

    Published on March 13, 2025

    Has your visa been denied by a consular officer under Section 214(b) of the Immigration and Nationality Act? Millions of visas are denied each year under this section of the law. If this has happened to you, you may feel confused and unsure about what it means or how to resolve it. In this post,…

  • J-1 Visa Waiver FAQ Cover Photo

    J-1 Visa Waiver: Frequently Asked Questions

    Published on February 24, 2025

    A J-1 visa waiver is sought to bypass the rule that requires J-1 holders to be physically present in their home country for two years. Our office often gets questions regarding J-1 visas, their waivers, and the approach for a favorable outcome. Common topics of discussion include what to do after receiving a J-1 visa…

  • SGM Law Group

    Important Update: Changes to the J-1 Exchange Visitors Skills List

    Published on December 17, 2024

    Effective December 9, 2024, the Department of State (DOS) has made significant updates to the J-1 Exchange Visitors Skills List. This list plays a crucial role in determining whether J-1 visa holders must return to their home countries for two years after their program ends, as mandated by Section 212(e) of the amended Immigration and…

  • Visa Sponsorship Cover Photo

    How to Get U.S. Visa Sponsorship Family, Employment, and Tourist Visas

    Published on April 22, 2024

    Visa sponsorship is a very common topic when discussing how to move to the U.S. In this article, you will find information on visa sponsorship, its importance, and how it works. Whether you’re an employer looking to sponsor an employee or an individual seeking to enter the US, this page will provide you with the…