J-1 Researcher & Short-Term Scholar Visas to the USA

Designed to allow international researchers, professionals, and subject matter experts to gain experience and consult at U.S.-based companies. These flexible cultural exchange programs are suitable for a wide range of positions in research, development or innovation in STEM fields and beyond.

A diverse group of six people sitting around a wooden conference table in a modern office, each with a laptop. They are smiling and engaged in a meeting.

The five-year* visa duration allows participants to make a meaningful impact, while advancing innovation at the business.

*J-1 Researcher visas are up to 5 years. Short-Term Scholar visas are up to 6 months. Specialist visas are up to 12 months


Visa applications are supported in a variety of industries, including (but not limited to) the following:

  • Aerospace

  • Automotive

  • Biotech

  • Chemicals

  • Communication

  • Computing

  • Defense

  • Electronics

  • Energy

  • Heath Care

  • Industrial Manufacturing

  • Journalism/ Publishing

  • Law/ Legal Services

  • Non-Profit/ NGO

Eligibility Requirements

Researchers and Short-Term Scholars are foreign nationals with proven expertise in their field. They can conduct  research, observe, lecture, or consult on projects at U.S. academic, corporate, non-profit or for-profit organizations for up to five years*.
*Short Term Scholar visas are limited to a max 6 months

Eligible candidates can include:

  • Current J-1 Research Scholars    

  • Researchers in a wide range of fields, including biotech, finance, engineering, public policy and more 

  • Research & Development Experts    

  • Graduate & PhD Students    

  • Post-Graduates    

  • Professors    

  • F-1 Graduates      

Specialists are subject matter experts in a field of specialized knowledge or skill. They can observe, consult, or demonstrate their special skills at U.S. organizations for up to one year.  

Eligible candidates can include:

  • Experts with specialized skills in a wide range of fields, including consultants, business development experts and tradespeople  

     

Which Visa is Right for You?

Feature J-1 Researcher Short-Term Scholar Specialist
Maximum Duration Up to 5 Years Up to 6 Months Up to 1 Year (12 Months)
Ideal Candidate Applicants seeking long-term U.S. placement. Experts needing brief U.S. access for a specific project or visit. Subject matter experts in a field of highly specialized knowledge.
Primary Activities Conduct deep research, lecture, consult, or observe at U.S. institutions and orgs. Conduct short-term research, observe, lecture, or consult. Observe, consult, or demonstrate specialized, niche skills.
Typical Profiles Graduates, R&D Experts, PhD Students, Post-Graduates, Professors, F-1 Graduates. Visiting lecturers, short-term R&D collaborators, guest researchers. Business development experts, specialized consultants, skilled tradespeople.
Example Fields Biotech, Engineering, Finance, Law, Aerospace, Public Policy. Academia, specialized STEM projects, short-term corporate consulting. Niche industrial manufacturing, specialized legal services, defense consulting.

This program allows international professionals, researchers, specialists, and scholars to gain international experience in the USA for up to 5 years, fostering collaboration and innovation across industries. Participants gain hands-on experience, expand their professional networks, and contribute to global advancements in their fields.

How to Apply

Already have a position in the U.S.?

  • Register on this page to determine eligibility and start your application (your host will also complete a brief application).

  • Obtain an offer letter from your host with a detailed description of your role.

  • Once approval in principle has been granted, complete your online application and pay your programme fees.

  • Attend a personalized , virtual program orientation with Cenet.

  • Schedule your embassy appointment after Cenet approval.

  • Receive your visa.

  • Travel to the U.S.!

Are you a STEM Researcher looking for a position in the U.S.?

Cenet is a proud supporter of the STEM Research Initiative.

You can discover opportunities that match your specific expertise, apply directly to companies and universities seeking your skills, and work with Cenet to secure a visa for up to 5 years in the U.S. Register today at STEM Talent Connect!

Programme Fees

You can see the cost of the programme below. The required insurance is in addition to these fees, so we encourage all applicants to use the insurance calculator to help work out your estimated total fees.

*Researcher application only: Researchers who choose their host organisation’s qualifying health insurance do not need to purchase the standard CENET insurance. They are, however, required to purchase “supplementary” Cenet insurance that covers the regulatory requirements of repatriation of remains and medical evacuation to home country (required as part of the J-1 visa programme). These are generally not included in standard employer-provided health insurance.
The fee for this is currently $9/ month for the duration of your time in the USA.

Currency:
Duration Cost
1-6 months £ 1050
7-11 months £ 1200
12-18 months £ 1325
19-24 months £ 1750
25-36 months £ 2100
37-48 months £ 2450
49-60 months £ 2750

Total Programme Fee Calculator

Insurance is a fixed rate of $63 per month. This is added to your programme fee based on the selected term. Select your desired duration to calculate the total cost.

1 month

Total Cost Breakdown:

Not Included in Programme Fees

  • US Embassy Interview fee (MRV Fee): Currently $185 - payable direct to the Embassy or Consulate when you book your face to face visa interview

  • Visa Integrity Fee (expected from October 2025): Estimated at $250 - see here for further information

  • Flights: Purchased independently by participant

  • Accommodation: Secured independently

Gain new perspectives while sharing your expertise.

Full support for a smooth visa process.

Short-term and long-term opportunities available.

Register for more information

Please take a minute to send us some of your details.

Once we receive this, a member of our team will get back to you via email.

*You don’t need to upload a copy of your resume, but it will help us to check your eligibility for the programme.

Your Bridge to the USA.

An experience that lasts a lifetime. A visa that makes it happen