The J-1 visa is a non-immigrant visa program in the United States designed for individuals participating in work-and-study-based exchange visitor programs. It allows foreign nationals to gain experience in their field, improve their English skills, and share their culture with Americans. Participants in the J-1 program can include students, interns, researchers, and teachers, among others. The program is managed by the U.S. Department of State, which sets specific requirements and guidelines for each category of exchange visitor.