The J Exchange Visitor Program was developed to implement the Mutual Educational and Cultural Exchange Act (the Fulbright-Hayes Act) of 1961. The overall purpose of the Act, and the objectives of the J Exchange Visitor Program is "to increase mutual understanding between the people of the United States and the people of other countries by means of educational and cultural exchanges."
There are many advantages to individuals and organizations who are part of the J-1 Exchange Visitor Program including the facilitation of academic teaching and research, and many types of people-to-people cultural exchange activities. There are, however, a number of conditions and requirements that come with the use of the J-1 visa. Those who plan to participate in a J-1 Exchange, should make themselves familiar with those requirements before arriving in the U.S.: