/Office of Global Affairs
Visa and Immigration Services

J-1 Specialist

You may participate in the J-1 Specialist category if you are an expert in a field of specialized knowledge or skill and you will visit Stony Brook University for a temporary academic or professional exchange.

This category allows you to come to the United States to observe, consult, or demonstrate specialized knowledge or techniques. It is commonly used for non-teaching staff positions and professionals who will collaborate with faculty, provide training, or share technical expertise with members of the university community. J-1 Specialists may not fill a permanent or long-term position of employment in the U.S.

Your program must have a clearly defined purpose and must be sponsored by a Stony Brook University department.

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for the J-1 Specialist category, you must:

  • Be an expert in a field of specialized knowledge or skill
  • Have a clearly defined purpose to share that expertise through observing, consulting, or demonstrating skills
  • Be coming for a temporary exchange, not to fill a permanent or long-term position
  • Demonstrate sufficient English proficiency for the program
  • Show adequate funding for the duration of the visit
  • Maintain required health insurance for the entire program period
  • Be participating for no more than one year (no extensions beyond the maximum)

 

Length of Stay

The J-1 Specialist category allows for a temporary stay.

  • Minimum stay: There is no required minimum program length.

  • Maximum stay: 1 year

Your authorized stay will be listed on your Form DS-2019. You may remain in the United States only for the time needed to complete the approved program activities.

If additional time is needed, your department may request an extension before your program end date, as long as the total program length does not exceed one year.

Program Activities

Your activities must focus on sharing specialized knowledge or skills with the university community.

Examples of common activities include:

  • Consulting with faculty or research teams

  • Observing professional or technical work

  • Demonstrating specialized methods or techniques

  • Participating in academic discussions or collaborative projects

Your activities must match the purpose listed on your Form DS-2019.