What is the Certificate of Eligibility (DS-2019)?
This is a legal document issued by a designated sponsor of the J-1 visa under the authority of the U.S. Department of State. The Certificate of Eligibility is the document that entitles and authorizes the exchange visitor participant to participate in on-the-job learning in the United States, and to receive wages for such activity. The Certificate of Eligibility is null and void if the exchange visitor does not obtain a J-1 visa from a U.S. Embassy or Consulate for entry to the United States. The application for the J-1 visa can only be made once the Certificate of Eligibility has been issued, and application must be made through a U.S. Embassy or Consulate overseas (preferably in the applicant’s home country).
