Visa Support Specialist

Job Summary

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

Duties/Responsibilities:

Visitor Intake and Vetting

• 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, ensuring they are structured, bona fide, and appropriate for hospitality and tourism occupations.

• Confirm programs do not involve unskilled labor, staff augmentation, or displace U.S. workers.

Regulatory Compliance and Sponsor Obligations

• 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.

Host Organization Onboarding and Oversight

• 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.

Exchange Visitor Support and Case Management

• 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.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• 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.

What You’ll Bring

• 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.

Education and Experience:

• 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.

Physical Requirements:

• Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer.

EEO Statement

The company provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.

Please note that this job description is not designed to cover all activities, duties, or responsibilities. Activities duties and responsibilities may change at any time with or without notice.