U.S. Visa Sponsorship Information
How will I be sponsored to teach in the U.S.?
VIF is officially designated by the U.S. Department of State as an Exchange Program Sponsor. As such, VIF is authorized to sponsor cultural-exchange teachers in the U.S. for up to three years. VIF participants apply for a J-1 visa, which is specifically designed for cultural exchange programs. This visa is availably only to non-U.S. citizens and those who are not permanent residents of the U.S.
I'm already in the U.S., but I'm not a U.S. citizen or permanent resident. May I apply?
You may be eligible to participate depending on your individual situation. We will review your application to fully evaluate your candidacy.
How long can I stay in the U.S.?
The J-1 Exchange Visitor visa used by VIF teachers is valid for up to three years and cannot be extended. At the end of three years, VIF teachers are expected to return to their home countries to share their experiences and fulfill the cultural exchange. Teachers and schools renew contracts with mutual consent at the end of the first and second years of employment. Schools have the expectation that teachers will remain for the maximum length of time allowed under the J-1 visa. If you intend to stay in the U.S. for longer than three years, you should not apply for participation in our program.