EEasy Filing Hub

Student Visas

J-1 Exchange Visitor Prep (Form DS-2019)

Get ready for your J-1 exchange visitor program.

We'll guide you through it, step by step

  • ✓Simple questions in plain language — no legal jargon
  • ✓We fill in the official form and check for common mistakes
  • ✓Private — no document uploads

Free to start • No credit card • Official form

Not sure this is the right form? Take the free eligibility check

Estimated fee

See official fee schedule (SEVIS and visa fees apply)

View official fee calculator ↗

Typical timeline

2 to 6 weeks depending on sponsor

Category

Student Visas

Who qualifies

Accepted participants in a designated U.S. Department of State exchange program who have verified funding and a valid foreign passport.

The step-by-step roadmap

  1. 1

    Accept Exchange Offer

    Secure acceptance into a certified exchange sponsor program and confirm your category.

    Watch out: Ensure your sponsor is officially designated by the U.S. Department of State.
    Common rejection reason: Applying through an unauthorized or unaccredited sponsor organization.
  2. 2

    Submit Biographical & Funding Details

    Provide passport data, financial proof, and exchange objectives to your sponsor.

    Watch out: Your name and birth date must match your passport exactly.
    Common rejection reason: Submitting inadequate financial proof for the full program duration.
  3. 3

    Review Issued Form DS-2019

    Receive and verify your SEVIS-generated Form DS-2019 issued by your sponsor.

    Watch out: Carefully check your SEVIS ID, program dates, and funding allocations.
    Common rejection reason: Proceeding with typos in biographical data or incorrect program dates.
  4. 4

    Pay SEVIS Fee and Apply for Visa

    Use your SEVIS number to pay the I-901 fee, then apply for your J-1 visa via Form DS-160.

    Watch out: Pay the SEVIS fee at least 3 business days before your visa interview.
    Common rejection reason: Attending the embassy interview without proof of SEVIS fee payment.

Documents you'll need

  • Valid Passport

    Passport valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended program stay.

    Note: Must show your clear photo, full legal name, and expiration date.

  • Proof of Financial Support

    Bank statements, scholarship letters, or government funding awards.

    Note: Must meet or exceed sponsor minimum funding requirements.

  • Sponsor Acceptance Letter

    Official confirmation letter outlining program dates and exchange terms.

Ready to start?

Run the free eligibility check first, then get your personalized roadmap and document checklist.

Check my eligibility

Fees and timelines are as published by the relevant agency and may change — verify before filing. This guide is general information, not legal advice.