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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.

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

  1. Initial Inquiry: Contact us to express interest and determine eligibility

  2. Review & Evaluation: We assess academic background, objectives, and proposed host department at VUIM

  3. Document Preparation: Submit application materials (CV, passport, invitation details, funding info, etc.)

  4. DS-2019 Issuance: VUIM prepares and sends the DS-2019 form for visa application

  5. Visa Interview: Schedule an appointment with the U.S. Embassy/Consulate in your country

  6. 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!

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