Introduction
Canadian and Bermudian Exchange Visitors

Exchange visitors who are Canadian or Bermudian citizens are generally visa exempt. They apply for admission and secure “J status” from the CBP at a port of entry after being accepted to BridgeUSA by a designated sponsor.

Application
Step 1 Secure an internship/training from a US-based entity
Step 2 Be accepted to the BridgeUSA by a designated sponsor
Step 3 Be registered with SEVIS
Step 4 Issued Form DS-2019 (original) and Form DS-7002

Visa Application panel
Step 1 Sign in blue ink and upload a copy of Form DS-2019 (signed)
Step 2 Click “Canadians” in Part D
Step 3 Enter the insurance coverage period and upload a proof
Step 4 Download the SEVIS receipt (or pay the USD 220 SEVIS fee if not paid via FUSIA)

Board, Land & Fly panel
Step 1 Prepare for an interview by a CBP officer
Step 2 Gather the required materials
Step 3 Hand carry and present them to the CBP when crossing the border

What to note?
Canadian and Bermudian Exchange Visitors

1 Generally, a citizen of a foreign country who wishes to enter the US must first obtain a visa. Citizens of Canada and Bermuda may enter the US for a limited time frame without a US visa. Click HERE for more.

2 Canadian and Bermudian participants who choose to circumvent the visa interview abroad are not required to complete Form DS-160 or pay the MRV fee, but they are still required to pay the SEVIS fee and present a valid Form DS-2019 and DS-7002 along with other required documents at the time of admission.

3 Canadian and Bermudian participants who choose to apply for admission to the US at the border are generally exempt from the two-year home residency requirement. However, they may be subject to the rule if they receive any funding (including travel grants) from their home country government.

4 CBP officers are accustomed to admitting Canadians and Bermudians to the US as visitors. Canadian and Bermudian participants who choose to skip the visa interview at a US embassy or consulate must ensure that they are granted the correct immigration status (J) when entering the US. If not, they will have to return to Canada and enter the US again.

No Results