J-1 Trainee Program

Structured U.S. training. Global careers.

The J-1 Trainee Visa Program gives international professionals hands-on training at U.S. companies — building real skills, a global network, and genuine cultural exchange.

What is the J-1 Trainee Program?

It is a U.S. Department of State exchange program for professionals from outside the United States to take part in structured training that matches their occupational field. Under a designated sponsor like USTrainee, participants train with a U.S. host company for up to 18 months, gaining practical experience while sharing their own culture — all in full compliance with 22 CFR Part 62.

Up to 18 monthsWorldwide applicantsDOS-designated sponsor
J-1 Trainee Program

How It Works

1

Application & Interview

Submit your resume and application. We interview qualified candidates.

2

Training Plan (DS-7002)

We build a customized training plan together with your host company.

3

Visa Sponsorship (DS-2019)

We issue sponsorship documents and guide you through the J-1 visa process.

4

Arrival & Orientation

Receive pre-departure training and orientation upon arrival.

5

On-site Training & Support

Begin professional training with ongoing support from our team.

Training Fields

Trainees are placed across the Department of State's occupational categories, including:

Management & Business
Engineering & Industry
Hospitality & Tourism
Arts & Culture
Media & Communications
Education
Agriculture & Forestry
Sciences & Architecture
Construction & Trades
Public Administration & Law
Social Services
Commerce & Finance

Who Can Apply

  • A foreign degree or professional certificate plus one year of related experience, or five years of full-time experience in your field.
  • At least 18 years old (typically 20–35).
  • Sufficient English to train and communicate in a U.S. workplace.
  • Intent to return home at the end of the program.
  • Valid health insurance meeting J-1 requirements (we can help arrange this).

For Host Companies

  • Access global talent without visa quotas — the sponsor handles compliance.
  • Bring fresh international perspective and cultural exchange to your team.
  • Provide structured training under a signed DS-7002 plan.
  • Maintain workers' compensation and supervise the trainee's progress.
  • No displacement of U.S. workers.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the J-1 Trainee Program?
The J-1 Trainee Program is a U.S. Department of State exchange program that lets international professionals train at a U.S. host company for up to 18 months. It is administered by designated sponsors such as USTrainee (Summa Global Education) under 22 CFR Part 62.
Who is eligible for the J-1 Trainee Program?
Applicants need a foreign degree or professional certificate plus at least one year of related work experience, or five years of full-time experience in the field. You must be at least 18, have adequate English, and intend to return home after the program.
How long does the J-1 Trainee Program last?
Trainee programs last up to 18 months. The Intern category lasts up to 12 months. The exact length is set in your DS-7002 training plan.
Is the J-1 Trainee Program paid?
Many host companies offer a stipend, and some provide housing, but compensation is not guaranteed. Any terms are documented in the DS-7002 training plan. The program’s primary purpose is training and cultural exchange.
What documents do I need for a J-1 visa?
You need a DS-2019 (Certificate of Eligibility) issued by your sponsor, a signed DS-7002 training plan, a paid SEVIS I-901 fee, a completed DS-160, and a valid passport for your visa interview.
How do I apply for the J-1 Trainee Program?
Confirm your eligibility, apply through USTrainee, get matched with a host company, receive your DS-2019, pay the SEVIS fee, complete the DS-160, attend your visa interview, then travel within 30 days of your program start date.
Which fields qualify for J-1 training?
The Department of State recognizes categories including Management & Business, Engineering, Hospitality & Tourism, Arts & Culture, Media, Education, Agriculture, the Sciences, Construction, Public Administration, Social Services, and Commerce & Finance.
Can host companies benefit from the program?
Yes. Host companies gain access to global talent without visa quotas, add international perspective and cultural exchange, and rely on the sponsor to handle compliance — provided they deliver structured training and do not displace U.S. workers.

Ready to start?

Apply as a trainee, or register your company to host global talent. We handle the paperwork, compliance, and support.

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