I didn't see this point in the article, but I might have missed it: On a J-1 visa you may have to return to your home country for 2 years after it expires -- you can only visit on tourist/student visas in those two years, not work in the US. I was subject to this, as a UK citizen interning in Redmond between undergraduate years (in 2002), but I have not met many other J-1 holders and don't know how common it was. htt…
This is what is commonly known as Two Year Rule or 212(e) which is applicable to few different situations, e.g. if you get a grant from your government for your training or your profession is on your home country's skill list. It's also pretty random and I for example was stamped with the rule but many countries issues "no objection" letters which allow you to waive the requirement. Two year rule does only affect som…
Re: How to intern in Silicon Valley with a J1 visa
#51The visa types it affects are generally those which allow immigrant intent. Non-immigrant intent visas are OK. The principle is that you're here for specialised training, and have to take the knowledge home before immigrating. But yeah, just check the small print (as with any immigration situation!).