07 Sep 2023

Overview of the J-1 Visa Process

Pursuant to the regulations, the J-1 program was established to "increase mutual understanding between the people of the United States and the people of other countries by means of educational and cultural exchanges. Educational and cultural exchanges assist [the U.S. Department of State] in furthering...

29 Jun 2020

MurthyAudio: Murthy Discusses Presidential Proclamation Impacting H1B, L-1, and Certain Other NIV Holders

Late on the evening of June 22, 2020, the Trump Administration issued a Presidential Proclamation that impacts individuals applying for certain nonimmigrant visas (NIVs). Specifically, the travel ban applies to certain NIVs like the H1B, H2B, L-1, certain J holders, and their dependents.There is fear...

02 Jan 2020

I will soon be completing a J-1 medical residency program. I read online that it is possible to get a “no objection” waiver to the J-1 home residency requirement. How do I apply for this?

Answer There is a no objection waiver to the home residency requirement. Generally speaking, however, if a foreign national used the J-1 program to attend a medical residency program, they would not be eligible to use the no objection option. (02.Jan.2020)Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys...

26 Dec 2019

I am finishing a J-1 program and am subject to the home residency requirement. Prior to beginning the J-1, I lived in India. Once I am done with the program, however, I will be moving to live in Australia. If I live in Australia for two years, will that satisfy the home residency requirement?

Answer Generally speaking, a person is required to live in the previous country of residency – in your case, India. Living in Australia normally would not meet this requirement. (26.Dec.2019)Sheela Murthy and other senior attorneys provide guidance that clarifies the law. For information on our FREE...

23 Mar 2018

NewsFlash! President Trump Signs Bill Funding Federal Government Through September 2018

This afternoon, President Trump signed a federal spending bill that keeps the government open through September 30, 2018. This bill also extends the employment-based, fifth preference (EB5) regional center program for the same time period. The bill does not, however, provide any protections to beneficiaries...