Targeted Intern Program Proposed Between U.S. and Mexico

The U.S. Department of State (DOS) has given notice of a proposed Internship program between the U.S. and Mexico.

The program would fall within the parameters of the J-1 Visa Exchange Visitor Program, which is administered by the DOS. The Intern category is one of 15 designated categories under the Exchange Visitor Program. It is geared towards foreign nationals who are either currently enrolled full-time and pursuing studies at a degree or certificate granting post-secondary academic institution outside the U.S., or who have graduated from such an institution no more than 12 months prior to the internship start date.

Under the proposal, eligible Mexican nationals will be able to come to the U.S. under the administration of a designated DOS Intern program sponsor and the supervision of a U.S. employer to undertake a period (of no more than 12 months) of work-based learning designed to enhance their education and give them a “leg up” in their chosen careers. The Internship must be in one of the following fields: Management, Business, Commerce and Finance; Public Administration and Law; Information Media and Communications; or The Sciences, Engineering, Architecture, Mathematics, and Industrial Occupations. The program is also designed to give participants invaluable cross-cultural experiences to aid a better understanding between the peoples of Mexico and the U.S.

While eligible Mexican nationals are currently able to apply for J-1 Internships regardless, DOS has indicated that it wishes to collaborate with currently designated DOS Intern program sponsors to potentially authorize separate two-year designations in order to support this initiative and increase opportunities for Mexican nationals to participate in programs in the above-mentioned occupational categories. DOS is also interested in receiving designation applications from other interested entities to bolster program sponsorship options for participants.

Please contact our office directly if you would like additional information regarding the J-1 Internship program, including requirements for becoming a participant, designated program sponsor, or employer.