What is the DS-2019 Form, and How Is It Used?
The DS-2019 Form is the document that allows you to apply for the J-1 Visa as an Intern or Trainee in the USA. The DS-2019 form is also called “Certificate of Eligibility”. It is issued to you by CICD, a US Department of State-designated sponsor organization. The DS-2019 Form CICD issues to you is unique to you, and identifies you in SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System).
CICD issues the DS-2019 Form only after you apply and are accepted for CICD sponsorship in the J-1 Internship or Trainee Program.
After CICD approves your application, you will apply for the J-1 Visa at a U.S. consulate or embassy. At the consulate or embassy you will submit the DS-2019 Form together with your other application materials. The DS-2019 form serves to demonstrate to the embassy or consulate that CICD has vetted and supports your application. The DS-2019 Form makes possible the approval of your J-1 Visa and Internship or Trainee Program.
Note: Only a US consulate or embassy can grant the J-1 visa for your internship or trainee program. J-1 visa sponsors like CICD cannot guarantee that a US consulate or embassy will grant any particular applicant the J-1 Visa.