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WFE can only sponsor J-1 visas for agricultural businesses. WFE currently works with hosts in a wide variety of agribusiness types including wineries, country clubs, swine producers, grass seed farms, dairies, processors, and greenhouses. WFE is committed to facilitating internship/training opportunities in a wide range of categories and climates. See the list of agricultural categories in which WFE is certified to sponsor J-1 visas.
Hosting a Trainee or Intern with WFE can be a mutually beneficial experience. As a host, you will have the chance to connect with another culture and its professionals in your field. Many of our hosts have developed lifelong relationships with their trainees and interns.
At minimum, you must provide the following:
No, WFE does not charge application or membership fees to hosts.
WFE trainees and interns will have J-1 Exchange Visitor visas. These visas are not work visas, but they do allow trainees and interns to participate in cultural exchange through work experience (with WFE hosts) as part of the training/internship program.
WFE interns and trainees are able to apply for Social Security numbers and be placed on payroll.
Medical insurance for trainees and interns is provided by WFE, and the cost is included in the program fee. This insurance covers illness or injury on or off the job, but does not replace Workers Compensation coverage, if your state requires it.
WFE charges a monthly fee to cover the cost of visa sponsorship, medical insurance, and other services. In some instances, a trainee or intern may be placed on a host’s payroll and authorize the host to deduct WFE’s program fee from his or her paycheck.
It may take weeks or months before your trainee or intern will arrive. Generally, we estimate between 8-12 weeks from application to visa issuance, but this depends on many factors.
You will need to pay for
WFE is required by the U.S. State Department to have cooperating partners, when possible, to assist in screening and preparing candidates for visa interviews. WFE can only accept applicants from co operating partners in most countries. Cooperating partners may charge a fee for their services. If you need help finding a partner, ask WFE.
Connect with a partner before submitting your application here.
No, WFE does not charge a fee to apply for the Program.
As part of the WFE Program, the following items are included in the Program Fee:
The process can take weeks or months before an applicant is accepted and able to travel. WFE accepts applications and makes placements year round. The process is explained in more detail in our Agriculture Program and Wine Program pages. Generally, we estimate between 8-12 weeks from application to visa issuance.
The maximum program length with WFE is 12 months. Wine programs usually last 3-4 months. The DS-7002 and DS-2019 forms show the confirmed program dates. There is a 30 day grace period before and after the program, according to the program dates on the DS-2019. View more information about the DS-2019 or the visa expiration date.
WFE has hosts in a wide variety of agribusiness types including wineries, country clubs, swine producers, grass seed farms, dairies, and greenhouses. WFE has hosts all over the U.S. WFE is committed to facilitating internship/training opportunities in a wide range of categories and climates.
The J-1 visa requirements for the WFE Programs are listed here. WFE can sponsor either intern or trainee category visas.
Worldwide Farmers Exchange is financed by program fees and charitable donations. Fees are paid by participants either directly to WFE or through the host.
