The certification process for the J-1 Visa

Certificate of Eligibility for the J-1 Visa (DS-2019 Form) is issued by American organizations designated by the U.S. Department of State as a Sponsor of the Intern and Trainee categories of the J-1 Exchange Visitor Program. The Sponsor is responsible for reviewing the participant and hosting company applications to ensure that they meet the criteria established by the U.S. government (among these organizations are e.g. CIEE).

The fee for the certification process for the J-1 Visa of one intern is to be paid to the Sponsor (e.g. CIEE) by EEF or the hosting company (if it executes the procedure on its own) and amounts to approx. 1,570-1,670 USD (depending on various conditions). The fee (as of 2022) includes:

$ 1,100 – $ 1,200 – basic fee depending on the Sponsor and length of the internship;

$ 220 – registration of an intern in the SEVIS system;

$ 250 – site visit if necessary.