You Received a U.S. Job Offer as a J-1 Visa Seeker—Now What?

Receiving a job offer to teach in the United States is an exciting milestone for international educators pursuing a J-1 Visa. However, navigating the next steps—from securing visa sponsorship to preparing for relocation—can feel overwhelming. The process involves several key steps to promote a smooth transition into your new teaching position and life in the U.S.

If you have received a U.S. job offer as a J-1 Visa teacher, here is what you need to know about the next steps to successfully obtain your visa and begin your U.S. teaching journey.

Step 1: Confirm Your Job Offer and Review Your Contract

Before proceeding with the J-1 Visa process, carefully review your employment offer. Ensure that all the details align with what you discussed with the school, including:

✅ Your job title and teaching assignment

✅ Salary amount

✅ Work schedule and contract duration

✅ Expectations for professional development and cultural exchange activities

If anything is unclear, do not hesitate to ask the school’s HR department or your hiring manager for clarification. Having a clear understanding of your agreement will help avoid any surprises once you arrive in the U.S.

Step 2: Obtain a J-1 Visa Sponsor

Unlike other employment-based visas, the J-1 Visa requires sponsorship from a designated visa sponsor authorized by the U.S. Department of State. Your school district will not be your visa sponsor—instead, they will work with an approved J-1 Visa sponsor who will issue the DS-2019 form, a required document for your visa application.

If you do not yet have a visa sponsor, this is where an organization like Teach In The USA (TUSA) can help facilitate the process. A visa sponsor will:

✔️ Ensure your eligibility for the J-1 Visa program

✔️ Provide guidance on visa regulations

✔️ Provide guidance on cultural exchange requirements

✔️ Support you throughout your time in the U.S.

   ✔️ If all requirements are met, provide you with a DS-2019 form

Step 3: Gather Required Documents

Once you have a job offer and a visa sponsor, it’s time to collect the necessary documents for your visa application. Commonly required documents include:

📌 A valid passport

📌 Form DS-2019 (provided by your J-1 Visa sponsor)

📌 Proof of financial support to cover initial expenses (e.g. bank statement)

📌 A letter of employment from your school district

📌 Academic credentials (degree evaluations, teaching certificates, transcripts, etc.)

📌 English proficiency test results

📌 A completed DS-160 Visa Application Form 

Step 4: Pay the SEVIS Fee & Schedule Your Visa Interview

Before applying for your J-1 Visa, you must pay the SEVIS I-901 fee (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System). This fee helps maintain your immigration records and must be paid before scheduling your visa appointment.

After paying the SEVIS fee, visit the U.S. embassy or consulate website in your home country to schedule your visa interview. Wait times for appointments vary, so it’s important to book as early as possible.

Step 5: Attend Your Visa Interview

The visa interview is a crucial part of the J-1 Visa application process. During your appointment, a U.S. consular officer will review your documents and ask questions about:

• Your teaching background and experience

• Why you chose the J-1 Visa program

• Your plans after completing the program; remember, the J-1 Visa is a cultural exchange visa, meaning you are expected to return home at the end of your stay.

To increase your chances of approval, answer confidently, honestly, and provide clear evidence that you meet all the requirements. If approved, you will receive instructions on how and when to collect your passport with the J-1 Visa stamp.

Step 6: Prepare for Your Move to the U.S.

Once your visa is approved, it’s time to plan your relocation. Here are key things to consider:

🏡 Housing: You will need to secure accommodations independently. Research rental options and the cost of living in your assigned location.

🛂 Travel Arrangements: Book your flight and confirm arrival logistics with your J-1 Visa sponsor and school district.

📑 Health Insurance: J-1 Visa teachers are required to have medical insurance that meets U.S. Department of State regulations.

💵 Financial Planning: Be sure to bring enough funds to cover initial expenses such as housing deposits, transportation, and daily necessities.

Step 7: Arrive in the U.S. & Complete Orientation

Upon arrival, you will need to check in with your J-1 Visa sponsor and complete any required cultural exchange orientation sessions. Your school may also host a teacher onboarding program to introduce you to policies, classroom expectations, and professional development opportunities.

Take time to:

✔️ Meet your school administrators and colleagues

✔️ Explore your new community and transportation options

✔️ Open a U.S. bank account

✔️ Obtain a Social Security Number

Step 8: Embrace the Cultural Exchange Experience!

The J-1 Visa program is more than just a teaching opportunity—it’s a cultural exchange experience. You will have the chance to share your home country’s traditions while immersing yourself in American culture.

Take advantage of:

🎉 School & Community Events – Get involved in extracurricular activities, student organizations, and cultural celebrations.

👥 Professional Growth – Participate in workshops, teacher training programs, and networking events.

🌍 Travel & Exploration – Use school breaks to visit different parts of the U.S. and experience new cultures firsthand.

Final Thoughts

Receiving a job offer as a J-1 Visa teacher is the first step in an exciting journey. By following the steps outlined above, you can navigate the visa process with confidence and prepare for a successful transition to teaching in the U.S.

If you need guidance on securing a J-1 Visa sponsor or have questions about the process, Teach In The USA (TUSA) is here to help. Our team specializes in supporting international teachers with visa sponsorship, relocation assistance, and mentorship to promote a smooth and successful experience.

📩 Contact us today at Contact@TeachInTheUSA.org to learn more and take the next step toward your U.S. teaching career!

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