A Step-by-Step Guide for U.S. Employers
The J-1 Trainee Program allows U.S. companies to host international professionals for structured, short-term training programs. This cultural exchange program helps employers develop global talent while sharing U.S. professional practices and workplace culture.
What Is a J-1 Trainee?
A J-1 Trainee is a foreign professional who comes to the United States for career development and skills enhancement, not regular employment.
J-1 Trainees typically:
- Hold a degree or professional qualification
- Have prior work experience
- Participate in structured, supervised training
- Stay in the U.S. for up to 18 months (12 months for hospitality)
Who Can Hire a J-1 Trainee?
To host a J-1 Trainee, your organization must:
- Be a legally established U.S. business
- Have a physical office location
- Provide structured training, not unskilled labor
- Designate an experienced supervisor or mentor
- Meet sponsor requirements for staffing and revenue
Small and mid-sized businesses are welcome, though additional documentation may be required.
Step-by-Step: How to Hire a J-1 Trainee
Step 1: Partner With a Designated J-1 Sponsor
U.S. employers do not sponsor J-1 visas directly.
Instead, you work with a U.S. Department of State–designated J-1 sponsor organization.
The sponsor:
- Reviews employer eligibility
- Ensures program compliance
- Issues the Form DS-2019
- Monitors the trainee’s program
Step 2: Create a Training Plan (DS-7002)
Employers must submit a Training/Internship Placement Plan (Form DS-7002) that includes:
- Training objectives and learning outcomes
- Training phases and timelines
- Supervisor details
- Confirmation that the role is not ordinary employment
This document is required for visa approval.
Step 3: Select an Eligible Trainee
J-1 Trainees must meet one of the following:
- A degree or certificate plus at least 1 year of work experience, or
- 5 years of professional experience outside the U.S.
They must also demonstrate:
- English proficiency
- Relevant education or professional background
Step 4: Submit Employer Documentation
Employers typically provide:
- Business license and proof of operations
- Employer–sponsor agreement
- Training plan (DS-7002)
- Supervisor résumé
- Wage or stipend information
Step 5: Trainee Applies for the J-1 Visa
Once approved:
- Sponsor issues Form DS-2019
- Trainee pays the SEVIS fee
- Trainee attends a U.S. embassy or consulate interview
- Visa is issued
Step 6: Host and Supervise the Trainee
During the program, employers must:
- Follow the approved training plan
- Provide ongoing supervision and mentoring
- Allow sponsor check-ins or site visits
- Notify the sponsor of changes or early termination
Program Duration
- Up to 18 months for most professional fields
- Up to 12 months for hospitality and tourism
Compensation & Labor Rules
- J-1 Trainees may be paid or unpaid, depending on the program and industry
- Paid positions must comply with federal and state labor laws
- Hospitality, business, IT, and technical fields are usually paid
What Employers Cannot Do
- Use J-1 Trainees to fill labor shortages
- Replace U.S. workers
- Assign unskilled or routine labor
- Change duties without sponsor approval
Benefits of Hiring a J-1 Trainee
✔ Access to international talent
✔ Fresh global perspectives
✔ Cultural exchange and innovation
✔ No long-term immigration sponsorship required
✔ Flexible, short-term training programs
Ready to Get Started?
Hiring a J-1 Trainee is a streamlined process when guided by an experienced sponsor. Our team can help you determine eligibility, prepare documentation, and design a compliant training program.
Contact us today to learn how your organization can host a J-1 Trainee.