A J visa holder needs to understand what it takes to stay in good status. The main requirements are below.
1. Keep adequate health insurance. J-1 and J-2 visa holders must carry insurance that meets Department of State minimums and any stricter sponsor rules for the whole program. See J1 Visa Insurance.
2. Know whether the two-year home residency requirement applies to you. Some J-1 visitors are subject to INA 212(e). This usually applies if your program was funded by the U.S. or your home government, if your field is on your country's Skills List, or if you came for graduate medical training. If it applies, you must spend two years in your home country, or get a waiver, before you can receive an H or L visa or a green card. Your DS-2019 and visa stamp usually show whether you are subject, but ask your sponsor to confirm.
3. Work only as your program allows. A J-1 may only do the activity listed on the DS-2019. Your sponsor's Responsible Officer or Alternate Responsible Officer can explain the rules for your category. A J-2 spouse can apply for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) and may work only after USCIS approves it.
4. Understand your tax residency. Most J visitors are nonresident aliens for tax purposes at first. J students are generally exempt from the Substantial Presence Test for up to five calendar years. J teachers and researchers are generally exempt for two of the last six calendar years. Nonresident aliens on a J visa usually do not pay Social Security and Medicare (FICA) taxes on program-related work, but they do owe federal and state income tax. They file Form 1040-NR. Because the rules are detailed, consider a tax professional.
Nonresident aliens are also outside the Affordable Care Act's coverage rules. Plans built for international students and scholars are usually far less expensive than ACA marketplace plans. See Affordable Care Act and F or J Visa.
5. Meet English proficiency standards. Sponsors must make sure participants have enough English to succeed in their program and daily life. Each sponsor sets its own test.
6. Report changes within 10 days. Your record lives in SEVIS. Tell your sponsor within 10 days of a change of address, legal name, email or phone number. Failing to report is a status violation and can lead to termination of your program.