- How long will it take to obtain a J visa?
- What is VCS?
- What is SEVIS?
- What types of visa applications can I obtain using VCS?
- Where can I find a user manual for SEVIS?
- What are F and M visas?
- Is the J visa extension process the same as the process for obtaining the initial visa?
- Does all of this information have to be reported for very short term trainees (week or two duration)?
How long will it take to obtain a J visa?
VCS managers are advising missions to allow 6 to 8 weeks from the time data about the exchange visitor is entered into TraiNet until the completed and signed DS-2019 arrives back at the mission. To those 6 to 8 weeks, training managers should add whatever lead time they need before the TraiNet data entry, and whatever follow-up time required to submit the DS-2019 and obtain the actual J visa at their local consulate.
Actual times may vary from country to country. Check with your USAID mission TraiNet Administrator for more information.
What is VCS?
The VCS (Visa Compliance System) is USAID's secure, web-based system that tracks the approval process for obtaining DS-2019 forms for USAID participants. The DS-2019 form is then used to obtain a J-Visa for the USAID participant. VCS interfaces with the SEVIS system.
VCS builds on current Agency training data collection efforts by using TraiNet as it's primary data entry point. For more information on the J visa process:
- Download the The Complete Guide to USAID J Visa Compliance. section. The document is available at the bottom of the web page.
or -
- Contact the J Visa Help Desk
What is SEVIS?
SEVIS is an Internet-based application maintained by the Department of Home Security's Bureau of Citizenship and Immigration Services (BCIS). SEVIS allows electronic tracking and reporting on foreign students and exchange visitors in the United States.
USAID, and all other federal government agencies, must be SEVIS-compliant in the administration of their visa sponsorship programs. USAID's VCS (Visa Compliance System) interfaces with SEVIS, allowing authorized USAID users to enter required J-visa data and to receive a DS-2019 form in return that can be used to obtain visas the USAID participants require for US travel.
What types of visa applications can I obtain using VCS?
You may obtain the DS-2019 Certificate of Eligibility used to apply for the J-1 visa (for an individual studying in the US under a USAID scholarship), or a J-2 visa (for the participant's dependents – spouse, or children under the age of 21). In order to process a DS-2019 for a J-2 visa you must have the latest version of TraiNet Desktop – version 2.2.1 - or TraiNet Web. If you are a new user, you are required to use the web-based version. See FAQ How do I update to the most recent TraiNet Service Pack? if you are using TraiNet Desktop, or contact the J Visa Help Desk to obtain access to TraiNet Web.
All requests for DS-2019 forms for USAID-sponsored training must be made using TraiNet and the VCS.
What are F and M visas?
F-1 visas are issued to full time academic or language students, enrolled in a program leading to a degree or certificate. M-1 visas are issued to vocational or other non-academic exchange visitors.
Both visas are obtained in exactly the same manner. Both F and M visas are tracked by the BCIS through SEVIS.
Is the J Visa extension process the same as the process for obtaining the initial visa?
Yes. It goes through the system in the same fashion with the new requested end date. An extension then generates a request that is sent to SEVIS to request an update to the trainee's information.
Therefore, to request an extension simply change the program dates in TraiNet and submit the data again.