Visto n' Visa

I am in Academic Training and want to change employers. Can I?

It is possible to change employers during Academic Training, provided that the new activity is linked to the field of study and there is prior authorization from the sponsor.

Written by

Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

Updated on February 11, 2025
2 min read
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When participating in Academic Training, it is essential to understand that all professional activities must be strictly aligned with the objectives and field of study approved by your exchange program.

This type of training is a valuable opportunity to enhance knowledge and gain practical experience, but it comes with specific rules related to employment authorization. In many cases, it is possible to change employers during the Academic Training period, provided that the new activity is directly related to your field of study and you obtain prior authorization from your sponsor.

The change of employer cannot be done unilaterally, as your immigration status is conditioned on compliance with the rules established by the program. Therefore, it is crucial to contact the person responsible for your program and request the necessary guidance to proceed with this change.

Before making any decisions, I recommend that you carefully review the conditions of your visa and the guidelines of your program. Consulting a reliable source or seeking the opinion of qualified specialists is fundamental to ensure that the procedures comply with United States immigration law.

Be cautious of approaches that promise easy or quick solutions, because following the correct and official procedures is the best way to avoid future troubles and maintain your lawful status. Remember: respecting immigration laws and regulations is essential for your academic and professional experience in the United States to be successful and free of legal complications.

Learn more about J-1

Type
Cultural exchange
Duration
Program duration
2-year rule
Applies in some cases
Processing
2-6 weeks
All about J-1

About the author

Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

Meet the author

As a journalist and lead editor at Visto n’ Visa, Victoria helps ensure that immigration topics are covered in a clear, trustworthy, and easy-to-understand way. Her focus is on delivering useful, human, and relevant content for people exploring new paths abroad.

Victoria's tips

I am in Academic Training and want to change employers. Can I?

It is possible to change employers during Academic Training, provided that the new activity is linked to the field of study and there is prior authorization from the sponsor.

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