J-1 VISA

Table Of Contents

For work and travel students in the USA, the most commonly used visa is the J-1 Exchange Visitor Visa. This visa is part of the U.S. Department of State’s Exchange Visitor Program and is specifically designed for educational and cultural exchange.

What is the J-1 Visa? #

The J-1 Visa is a temporary, non-immigrant visa that allows foreign nationals to live and work in the U.S. as part of cultural exchange programs that promote the sharing of knowledge and cultural understanding.

What is the DS-2019 form? #

The DS-2019 form serves as proof of sponsorship for a J-1 Visa. This form identifies the student’s program sponsor, outlines the purpose of the program, and specifies the duration during which the student is permitted to work. It’s essential to note that the student can only work legally with a valid DS-2019 form, and employment must occur within the dates listed on the DS-2019. The J-1 Visa remains valid only when accompanied by the DS-2019 form

What is SEVIS? #

SEVIS is an abbreviation for the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System, a database maintained by the U.S. government to keep track of the addresses of students and exchange visitors. You MUST register in SEVIS within 10 days of your arrival in the United States( follow up with your US sponsor first when you arrive in the USA to register the SEVIS ). The U.S. Department of Homeland Security requires registration. If you do not register in SEVIS, you may be subject to arrest or deportation.

If I change my address, do I need to register my new address in SEVIS?

Yes. Every time you change your address, you should register your new work address and your physical housing address online (at sponsor website) or over the phone. No P.O. Box addresses should be entered.

Social Security
  1. Why is a Social Security number needed?
    • Social Security numbers are generally assigned to people who are authorized to work in the United States. They are used to report your wages to the government and when filing your tax return. Also, when opening up a new bank account, most banks require either a Social Security number or proof of application for a Social Security number.
  2. How Can I Apply for a Social Security Number (SSN)?
    • To apply for a Social Security Number (SSN), you will need to visit a local Social Security Administration (SSA) office. You’ll need to bring specific documents, including your passport, DS-2019 form, J-1 visa, and employment offer letter or contract.
  3. When Should I Apply for a Social Security Number (SSN)?
    • You can apply for a Social Security Number (SSN) as soon as you arrive in the USA and have secured employment. It’s essential to apply early to ensure that you have your SSN before you begin working.
  4. Can I Work Without a Social Security Number (SSN)?
    • In most cases, you cannot work legally in the USA without a Social Security Number (SSN). Employers are required to verify your eligibility to work, and having an SSN is part of that process.
  5. What if I Have Applied for a Social Security Number (SSN) but Haven’t Received It Yet?
    • If you have applied for a Social Security Number (SSN) but have not yet received it, you may still be able to start working. You can provide your employer with proof that you have applied for an SSN, such as a receipt or confirmation letter from the SSA. If you put your employer’s address on the Social Security application Form SS-5, first check with them to ensure that they have not already received your card. If they have not, call the Social Security Administration at 1-800-772-1213. An update on your application status will usually be given over the phone. In the event that there is an issue with the application, take detailed notes and call your US sponsor to help resolve the issue. You can also reapply in person at your local Social Security office, which can be found at: www.ssa.gov/locator.
  6. Can I Use My Social Security Number (SSN) for Purposes Other Than Work?
    • Yes, your Social Security Number (SSN) can be used for various purposes besides work, such as opening a bank account, renting an apartment, or applying for credit. It’s essential to keep your SSN safe and only provide it to trusted entities when necessary.

Tax #

  1. Can I get back the taxes that were taken out of my paycheck?
    • You may be able to get a refund for some or even most of the money you paid. Your refund depends on how much money you made while you were in the U.S. It also depends on how you filled out your W-4 Form.
  2. When can I file my taxes? / How can I get my refund?
    • You won’t be able to file your taxes until you receive your W-2 Form. At the beginning of the year, your employer will send you a W-2 Form (your employer is required by law to mail or email your W-2 to you by February 15th of the year following the year wages were earned). Before leaving your job, give your employer your email so he can send you your W-2. If you have received your W-2, please read our Tax filing process from A to Z page for more information.
  3. How should the J-1 students fill out their W-4?
    • All Work & Travel USA students are required to pay federal, state and local taxes. According to the IRS, students should use their U.S. address, claim single 1 and fill in “NRA” for non-resident aliens in line 6 of the W-4.

Please visit our TAX page For more information.

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