j1-visa-update

J1 Visa Update: What we know

It’s been a while since we’ve provided an update on the on-going political events in the US and the impact on the J-1 visa program, so here’s what we know…

 

No changes to the J-1 visa

With all the turmoil in the US at the moment you would expect some sort of change to this visa, but luckily for all of us the J1 visa is continuing as normal. There has been no changes to this visa and we’ve had no indication from our overseas partners that something is on the horizon. We of course will continue to monitor the situation closely and will let you know if anything changes.

Don’t forget that, as we stated in our early blog post ‘The Presidential Election and the J1 Visa Exchange Visitor program’, that both the Republican and Democratic parties have been long-time supporters of the J1 visa exchange program and we expect that to not change.

 

Executive Orders

Recently President Trump signed an executive order suspending entry from seven countries (Iran, Iraq, Somalia, Sudan, Syria and Yemen) for 90 days. An exemption has been made for New Zealand and Australian citizens who hold dual citizenship from one of the above countries allowing them to enter the US for travel or on a J1 visa. The exemption does not apply to any dual citizen who have visited one of the above countries in the last five years. If you have visited one of the above countries and are a dual citizen you may want to contact us here.

The travel ban has currently been temporarily stopped restoring travel for people from the above countries. We will provide updates as we learn more.

 

What does this mean for you?

It’ business as normal. If you are eligible for the 12 month J1 Visa (check here) you can still participate on the program. We would recommend that if you are planning on using this visa that you consider taking the opportunity to live and work in the US sooner, rather than later. To learn more about IEP’s Work USA programs please visit here.

 

Want more info on Work USA & J1 Visas?

Come to a free information evening where we review all you need to know about living and working in the USA with IEP. We cover all aspects of the program and answer any questions you may have. You can also contact us here, or give us a call on 1300 797 702.