Sponsorship information for J-1 Visa

[jamestrashy 0]

Hi

I've been offered an internship in San Fran, CA and I need to apply for the J-1 Visa, but I'm not too sure on how I can get the DS-2019 form.

I don't think my employer is a 'designated program sponsor'. This is the first time they've hosted someone from the UK, so I don't think they've set anything like that up.

Is it possible to find a sponsor to set everything up between my employer and me? Most of the designated sponsors listed say they deal with things that are in different fields to my internship, such as agriculture. Can these sponsors only offer an internship within their own company?

Also, I've read that the application takes into account how you will finance your stay. I will be financing myself with my savings, and my parents will also be supporting me. Is this substantial? I know myself that I will definitely be able to afford it, but will the application process be halted at this stage?

Apologies if any of my questions are stupid, I've never had to apply for a Visa before!

Thanks,

James

[mrs. carey 4]

Hi!

You are correct, your employer is not your designated program sponsor. You will have to contact designated sponsor organizations. My sponsor was CHI (Cultural Homestay International), for an internship in Hospitality Management when I did my internship back in 2009. Here's a full list of the sponsor organizations that you may contact:

http://j1visa.state.gov/participants/how-to-apply/sponsor-search/?program=Intern

As for your other questions (Is it possible to find a sponsor to set everything up between my employer and me? Most of the designated sponsors listed say they deal with things that are in different fields to my internship, such as agriculture. Can these sponsors only offer an internship within their own company?), these can be answered by the sponsor as they all vary.

You'll have to provide documentation of your finances to prove that you can afford it-- house title(s), businesses, other properties, photos of properties, bank accounts, statements of credit, etc. I had all of mine ready during my interview with the consul. He never asked for them though, but they're always good to have.

If you're asking about the process being halted because you don't have a sponsor organization yet, the answer is yes. It will get halted until you find an organization to sponsor your visa.

Good luck!

Edited January 27, 2014 by mrs. carey

[jamestrashy 0]

Thanks for the help! I'll look into that organisation, I take it you'd recommend them?

Do they also help out with the insurance and SEVIS side of things?

Thanks again!

[mrs. carey 4]

Yes, I do recommend them. Also, if you have questions or problems during your internship, you can always give them a call. CHI was very helpful during my time. Yes, they help out with the insurance and SEVIS side of things.

Edited January 28, 2014 by mrs. carey