J-1 Intern visa J-1 Trainee visa J-1 Research Scholar visa J-1 Short term Scholar visa J-1 Specialist visa View all Programs 
To apply for a J-1 Trainee visa in the United States, you need a J-1 visa sponsor. Stage-Global is authorized and designated by the U.S. Department of State and based in New York City. We offer J-1 visa sponsorship across 5 J-1 program categories, including the J-1 Trainee program.
Our sponsorship services include DS-7002 training plan development, issuance of the DS-2019 form, SEVIS administration, embassy interview preparation, and compliance support for both participants and host organizations.
With a step-by-step application process, nationwide host company acceptance, fast processing times (often within days once documents are complete), and ongoing support throughout your program, we make obtaining J-1 sponsorship simple and efficient.
To qualify for the J-1 Trainee visa, you must meet one of the following requirements:
Schedule a free intake meeting with Stage-Global to review your eligibility, program requirements, and visa regulations.
Stage-Global offers an optional placement service for the J-1 Trainee and J-1 Intern programs. Visit the program-specific pages to learn more about our placement services and available opportunities.
In addition to the J-1 Trainee program, Stage-Global offers sponsorship in other J-1 visa categories designed for interns, researchers, and academic exchange participants:
Register online by filling out our application form.
After reviewing your application, we schedule a free intake meeting to assess your eligibility, explain program requirements, and answer any questions. Based on this meeting, you can decide whether to proceed.
We collect all required documents from both the participant and the host company, including passport and academic/work records, proof of prior work experience, financial documentation, the DS-7002 Training Plan, host company agreement, and Workers’ Compensation insurance details.
Stage-Global reviews and processes your sponsorship application. Once approved, we issue your DS-2019 form.
You can then schedule your U.S. Embassy or Consulate interview. We provide supporting documentation and guidance to help you prepare for a smooth appointment.
After visa approval, you are ready to travel to the U.S. Upon arrival, we activate your SEVIS record and continue supporting you with important pre-arrival steps, including housing guidance, Social Security Number application instructions, and all other preparation details.
While in the U.S., you remain in regular contact with Stage-Global through periodic check-ins. We continue to support both you and your host company throughout the program duration.
Includes J-1 Intern sponsorship, DS-7002 trainingplan development, DS-2019 form, and full application support.
Does not include SEVIS fee ($220), health insurance ($89 per month), and visa appointment fee $185.
A J-1 visa sponsor is an organization authorized by the U.S. Department of State to administer and oversee J‑1 Exchange Visitor Program participants. Sponsors issue the Form DS‑2019 (Certificate of Eligibility) needed to apply for the J‑1 visa and are responsible for program placement, monitoring, and regulatory compliance. Stage-Global is a designated sponsor in 5 J-1 categories.
The overall process typically takes 6 to 8 weeks, depending on how quickly documents are submitted and the availability of visa appointments at your local U.S. Embassy or Consulate. With expedited processing (additional fees apply) and timely document submission, the entire process can be completed in as little as 4 weeks.
The required documents generally include: 1. Completed DS-7002 Training Plan, 2. Host Organization Agreement (provided by Stage-Global), 3. Workers’ Compensation insurance (or proof of exemption, if applicable)
Participants are generally required to submit: Valid passport, Resume/CV, Diploma + university transcripts (if applicable), Proof of fulltime relevant work experience, Financial documentation, Signed program forms (provided by Stage-Global).
Additional documents may be requested depending on your individual circumstances.
Yes, you can apply for a Social Security Number after arriving in the United States and once your SEVIS record has been activated. Stage-Global provides guidance throughout the application process.
Participants are responsible for securing their own accommodation. Stage-Global provides a housing guide with practical tips, recommended websites, and advice to help you find suitable housing before your arrival.
Stage-Global provides emergency contact information before your departure. If an emergency occurs during your program, contact us as soon as possible so we can assist you and, if necessary, coordinate with your host organization and insurance provider.
If your visa is denied, please notify Stage-Global immediately. We will review your case with you, explain your available options, and process any applicable refunds in accordance with our cancellation and refund policy.
Our cancellation and refund policy depends on the stage of your application and the services already provided. A detailed overview is available in our Terms & Conditions, and our team will gladly explain the applicable policy before you begin the program.
Yes. J-1 Trainees may receive compensation from their host organization. Once you have obtained your Social Security Number, your host organization can add you to payroll. J-1 Trainees must be paid as W-2 employees and cannot work as independent contractors (1099). Stage-Global provides practical information regarding payroll and tax obligations.
Every application is reviewed individually. Before any program fees are charged, we conduct a free eligibility assessment and discuss your qualifications during an intake meeting. This allows you to understand whether you qualify and what the next steps will be.
You have two options: you can either arrange your own qualified host organization or use Stage-Global’s placement service. If you already have a host company, we will review it to ensure it meets the J-1 program requirements. If you need assistance finding a traineeship, visit the program-specific pages to learn more about our placement services and available opportunities.
The J-1 Trainee program may be extended up to the maximum program duration of 18 months, provided you continue to meet the eligibility requirements and receive approval from Stage-Global. An extension request should be submitted at least 4 weeks prior to your original program end date.
No. J-1 Trainees may only work for the host organization listed on their approved DS-2019 form. Employment with any other employer or outside the approved training program is not permitted.
Requests to change host organizations are reviewed on a case-by-case basis. Any change must be approved by Stage-Global before it takes place, and the new host organization must meet all J-1 program requirements. Updated program documentation must also be reviewed and approved before you can begin your traineeship with the new host organization. Changing host organization does include a fee.
Yes. All J-1 Exchange Visitors are required to maintain health and accident insurance that meets U.S. Department of State requirements for the entire duration of their program. Stage-Global arranges compliant insurance for all participants, so you are covered from the start of your program.
Yes. Your spouse and unmarried children under the age of 21 may be eligible to accompany you on a J-2 visa. Separate applications and additional documentation are required. Please contact Stage-Global for information about eligibility, processing, and associated costs.
Yes. You may travel internationally during your program, provided your J-1 visa and passport remain valid and your DS-2019 has been signed for travel by Stage-Global. Please contact us at least 2 weeks in advance before making travel plans to ensure you have the required documentation for re-entry. The max duration of each trip outside the U.S. is 30 days.
You may enter the United States up to 30 days before the start date listed on your DS-2019 form as long as you have your visa. However, you may not begin your traineeship until your official program start date.
Yes. After successfully completing your J-1 program, you may remain in the United States for a 30-day grace period. During this time, you may travel within the U.S. and prepare for your departure, but you may not continue your traineeship or accept employment.
A structured process, from start to finish
Dedicated support and guidance from start to finish.
Stage-Global serves as your designated J-1 visa sponsor.
Optional host company placement services for Intern and Trainee programs.
Schedule a free intake meeting to explore the program options available to you.
24/7 emergency support from Stage-Global throughout your J-1 program.
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