Demystifying The HHS Waiver Process

The 'J' exchange visitor program permits researchers, scholars, professors, medical trainees, and others to come to the United States to participate in a sponsored program.

According to the U.S. Department of State, the J-1 program is designed to promote the interchange of persons, knowledge, and skills in the fields of education, arts, and sciences. Since the purpose is the exchange of information, knowledge, and skills, many exchange visitors are required to return to their home country at the completion of their program, to share their newly acquired information, knowledge, or skills. Yet in many instances, those with a two-year home requirement are reluctant to return. and if it can be establish that their continuing presence is in the interest of a U.S. government agency, they may not have to.