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J-1 Visa Program
Virginia University of Integrative Medicine (VUIM) proudly serves as a host institution for international scholars through the U.S. Department of State's J-1 Exchange Visitor Program.
We welcome participants from around the world to foster academic exchange, collaborative research, and cultural understanding in the field of integrative and traditional medicine.
Virginia University of Integrative Medicine (VUIM) proudly serves as a host institution for international scholars through the U.S. Department of State's J-1 Exchange Visitor Program.
We welcome participants from around the world to foster academic exchange, collaborative research, and cultural understanding in the field of integrative and traditional medicine.
J-1 Professor
Designed for individuals whose primary purpose is to teach, lecture, or instruct at VUIM
May also engage in research and academic collaboration
J-1 Research Scholar
Intended for scholars conducting research or participating in collaborative projects at VUIM
May also lecture incidentally
J-1 Short-Term Scholar
For individuals coming to VUIM for short visits to lecture, observe, consult, or participate in workshops
Cannot be extended beyond 6 months
Ideal for guest lecturers, clinicians, and visiting researchers
VUIM’s Commitment to Exchange Visitors
DS-2019 Form Issuance: We provide official sponsorship documentation
Personalized Support: From arrival guidance to visa compliance assistance
Academic & Cultural Integration: Access to events, lectures, and cross-cultural engagement opportunities
Application Process
Initial Inquiry: Contact us to express interest and determine eligibility
Review & Evaluation: We assess academic background, objectives, and proposed host department at VUIM
Document Preparation: Submit application materials (CV, passport, invitation details, funding info, etc.)
DS-2019 Issuance: VUIM prepares and sends the DS-2019 form for visa application
Visa Interview: Schedule an appointment with the U.S. Embassy/Consulate in your country
Arrival & Orientation: Check in with VUIM's international office upon arrival in the U.S.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Do I need a host faculty or department at VUIM? Yes. All J-1 visitors must be affiliated with a faculty member or department at VUIM that aligns with their academic goals.
Q2: Can I bring family members? Yes. Spouses and children under age 21 may apply for J-2 dependent visas. Additional financial proof is required.
Q3: Do I need health insurance? Yes. U.S. Department of State regulations require all J-1 and J-2 visa holders to maintain adequate health insurance for the full duration of their stay.
Q4: Can I extend my program? It depends on the category. Professors and Research Scholars can extend up to 5 years. Short-Term Scholars cannot extend beyond 6 months.
Q5: What happens after my program ends? You have a 30-day grace period to prepare for departure. Some J-1 holders may be subject to the 2-year home-country physical presence requirement.
Interested in Participating?
If you're an international scholar, researcher, or academic professional interested in joining VUIM as a J-1 visitor, please contact us at j1@vuim.edu for details on how to get started.
We look forward to welcoming you to VUIM!