Visa Support Specialist

The Visa Support Specialist serves as an Alternate Responsible Officer (ARO) under the Exchange Visitor Program, with primary responsibility for the review, selection, vetting, and processing of J-1 Intern and Trainee exchange visitors. The role places a strong emphasis on hospitality and tourism as a key occupational category. All duties are performed in accordance with 22 CFR §62.22 and Subpart A sponsor obligations, ensuring program integrity, regulatory compliance, and the health, safety, and welfare of exchange visitors throughout the program lifecycle. Supervisory Responsibilities: None.

Responsibilities

Review, evaluate, and approve J-1 Intern and Trainee applicants in compliance with 22 CFR §62.22; Screen and select exchange visitors by verifying eligibility, academic credentials, professional experience, and English proficiency; Assist in coordinating, reviewing and approving DS-7002 Training/Internship Placement Plans; Confirm programs do not involve unskilled labor, staff augmentation, or displace U.S. workers; Fulfill Subpart A sponsor obligations, including screening and selection, pre-arrival information and orientation, monitoring participation, and maintaining accurate records; Issue, amend, and manage DS-2019 forms and maintain SEVIS records in accordance with Department of State requirements; Monitor exchange visitor participation, program progress, and site of activity changes, reporting events and incidents as required; Support audits, validations, and internal compliance reviews; Support onboarding of hospitality and tourism host organizations; Review host organization eligibility, training capacity, supervision models, and compliance readiness; Ensure host organizations understand sponsor expectations and regulatory responsibilities; Serve as a point of contact for exchange visitors while in the United States; Provide timely guidance and support related to program participation, compliance, and cultural adjustment; Manage escalated issues involving health, safety, welfare, or host-exchange visitor concerns, including incident reporting; Collaborate with recruitment and sales teams on J-1 visa-related matters; Provide subject-matter expertise regarding hospitality and tourism placements and regulatory limitations; Contribute to process improvement initiatives across intake, compliance, and program operations

Requirements

Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to engage effectively across diverse, cross-cultural populations; Familiarity with SEVIS and Department of State regulations; Strong understanding of regulatory compliance, documentation, and international program administration, with the ability to assess risk and ensure adherence to sponsor obligations; Proven ability to manage case workflows, maintain detailed records, and handle escalations with professionalism and sound judgment; Strong attention to detail, organizational skills, and the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment; Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience; Prior experience working with J-1 Intern and Trainee programs; Experience as a Responsible Officer or Alternate Responsible Officer; Prior knowledge and experience in hospitality and tourism; Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer