The J-1 Visa is issued to overseas visitors for educational and cultural exchange purposes. The J-1 Visa category was established by the U.S. government through the Mutual Educational and Cultural Exchange Act of 1961 in order to promote the foreign policy objectives of the U.S. and to increase mutual understanding between the people of the U.S. and other countries through educational and cultural activities.

Employers complete a Training/Internship Plan outlining the goals and objectives of the program. The Training/Internship Plan ensures your company and the Intern have a mutual understanding of the Intern's duties and expectations throughout the program. The Human Resources manager or a department supervisor is assigned to oversee the Intern's program and your company will need to provide a mid-term and final evaluation based on program objectives.

AmerEx asks that Employers assist as much as possible in locating and securing housing for the Participants. Familiarity with your local area and accessibility to your worksite aids in selecting the most suitable housing arrangement for the Participants. You are not required to pay for their accommodations or provide free housing, as they are responsible for paying their own rent.

Interns/Trainees are recruited from around the world and may be available upon request. Program applicants are from a variety of backgrounds interested in working in the United States. All applicants are screened for appropriate English language fluency, ability to function in a work environment, and strong sense of motivation.

Internship Program:

1. Programs up to 12 months.
2. Formal, written internship program outline.
3. Program outline is tailored to the Participant's major and is an entry-level positions.
4. Intern position is in a specially occupation.
5. Participant has English skills enabling him/her to function in a business setting.
6. Participant is currently enrolled in a university or college outside the U.S. or has recently been rewarded a degree related to the internship within the past year.

Trainee Program:

1. Programs up to 18 months.
2. Formal, written trainee program outline.
3. Position is in a non-specialty occupation and is in a professional-level position.
4. Participant has English skills enabling him/her to function in a business setting.
5. Participants are college and/or university graduates from foreign institutions and have one year relevant work experience outside the U.S. or have five years of work experience outside the U.S.