Return ticket - J1 Visa

[wajid shafi]

Hi Everyone,

I have a distant family friend whose son has been selected to study at US state university for a month. Hes getting ready for the visa appointment and asked me if he should buy a return ticket prior to the appointment to serve as a proof that he will return back to the native country after his one month assignment. I was wondering if anyone could provide answer to that query and any additional tips when it comes to applying for the J1 visa. Any help would be greatly appreciated.

Thank You

[SkipLegalHelp]

Your family friend doesn’t need to buy a return ticket before the J1 visa interview. It’s not a requirement. While a return ticket could help show intent to return home, consular officers focus more on other evidence of strong ties to the home country.

They should bring documents that show connections like family, ongoing education, a job offer waiting for them, or property ownership. These things make a much stronger case than a return ticket.

For the interview itself, they’ll need to have their passport, DS-2019, DS-160 confirmation, SEVIS fee receipt, and proof of financial support. It’s also important to understand their exchange program and how it fits into their future plans.

Practicing responses, especially in English, dressing professionally, and being direct and honest in their answers will all help.

I pulled this piece of information from skiplegal.ai that I normally use for all my immigration queries!