Exchange Visitor Program-General Provisions, 48177-48190 [E9-22822]

Agencies

• DEPARTMENT OF STATE

[Federal Register Volume 74, Number 182 (Tuesday, September 22, 2009)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 48177-48190]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: E9-22822]


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DEPARTMENT OF STATE

22 CFR Part 62

[Public Notice: 6767]
RIN 1400-AC36


Exchange Visitor Program--General Provisions

AGENCY: United States Department of State.

ACTION: Proposed rule with request for comment.

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SUMMARY: The Department of State is proposing to amend the General 
Provisions (Subpart A) of the existing Exchange Visitor Program 
regulations. This section of the regulations establishes the procedures 
for designated Program sponsors and addresses overall Program 
administration. It provides the overall context in which to interpret 
all other provisions of the Exchange Visitor Program regulations. The 
General Provisions have not been revised in whole in over 15 years, 
despite modifications of many of the category-specific regulations and 
changes in technology.
    The proposed regulations encompass technical changes to the General 
Provisions and address public diplomacy and foreign policy concerns, 
including the Department's ability to monitor Program sponsors and to 
ensure the safety and well-being of foreign nationals who come to the 
United States as Program participants. The amendment of this section 
incorporates changes made to the regulations since the last update in 
1993. It ties all regulatory requirements together and consolidates the 
requirements set forth in the SEVIS reporting requirements regulations 
into the General Provisions.
    Certain definitions have been added, made clearer or deleted. This 
rule also proposes new requirements regarding applications for 
designation and redesignation, a change in the required amount of 
health insurance coverage, the identification of an Employer 
Identification Number (EIN) and Dun & Bradstreet numbers by sponsors 
and third party entities, the collection of employment authorization 
information and validation of the SEVIS record on an exchange visitor's 
accompanying spouse and dependents, criminal background checks on all 
Responsible Officers and Alternate Responsible Officers, and the 
implementation of management audits across all categories under the 
Private Sector Programs Division of the Office of Designation. The 
Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) currently in 
place is being redesigned. The redesign, SEVIS II, has no immediate 
impact on this proposed rule. Prior to the implementation of SEVIS II 
the Department of Homeland Security will introduce any new requirements 
or procedures to the public through a proposed rule with a comment 
period.

DATES: The Department will accept comments from the public up to 
November 23, 2009.

ADDRESSES: You may submit comments, identified by any of the following 
methods:
     Persons with access to the Internet may view this notice 
and provide comments by going to the regulations.gov Web site at: 
https://www.regulations.gov/index.cfm
     Mail (paper, disk, or CD-ROM submissions): U.S. Department 
of State, Office of Designation, SA-5, Floor 5, 2200 C Street, NW., 
Washington, DC 20522-0505.
     E-mail: jexchanges@state.gov. You must include the title 
and RIN in the subject line of your message.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Stanley S. Colvin, Deputy Assistant 
Secretary for Private Sector Exchanges, U.S. Department of State, SA-5, 
Floor 5, 2200 C Street, NW., Washington, DC 20522-0505; (202) 632-9288; 
or e-mail at jexchanges@state.gov.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The Department of State is proposing 
modifications to Sec.  62.2 through Sec.  62.16 of the Code of Federal 
Regulations, Title 22: Foreign Relations, Part 62--Exchange Visitor 
Program (Subpart A--General Provisions). Subpart A governs the 
designation of Program sponsors and addresses overall Program 
administration. It provides the overall context in which all remaining 
provisions of Part 62 are interpreted. Subpart A has remained largely 
unchanged since 1993, when the predecessor agency with oversight of the 
Exchange Visitor Program, the United States Information Agency (USIA), 
substantially rewrote all of the regulations governing the Program. 
(See 58 FR 15196, Mar. 19, 1993, as amended at 59 FR 34761, July 7, 
1994, redesignated at 64 FR 54539, Oct. 7, 1999.) In the intervening 15 
years, the Department of State modified regulations governing certain 
categories of exchange visitors and added new categories. New 
regulations governing the trainee category were published in 2007. 
Specialty and non-specialty training were eliminated and new trainee 
regulations implemented. A new category, Intern, was created. A 
subcategory of the College/University Student program, Student Intern, 
was also put in place for use by the academic community.
    The amendment of this section incorporates changes to the 
regulations since the last update in 1993, including the change in the 
period of redesignation which, with the passage of the Enhanced Border 
Security and Visa Entry Reform Act of 2002, Part (b)(1) (Section 502), 
was changed from every five years to every two years. The updates are 
important because they tie all regulatory requirements together, 
ensuring that the regulations are clear and that all sponsors 
understand and follow the same requirements in the administration of 
their designated exchange visitor programs. SEVIS is being redesigned. 
The redesign, SEVIS II, has no immediate impact on this proposed rule. 
Prior to implementation of SEVIS II, the Department of Homeland 
Security will introduce any new requirements or procedures to the 
public through a proposed rule with a comment period.
    To strengthen program oversight, the implementation of management 
audits for all private sector program sponsors, as currently utilized 
in the Au Pair

[[Page 48178]]

Program, are proposed. A management audit is a review of a sponsor's 
internal controls. The audit identifies weaknesses in operating 
procedures in the conduct of an organization's business and in meeting 
regulatory requirements in the administration of their exchange visitor 
program. The Department has employed an almost fully staffed Compliance 
Office to monitor the extent to which the nearly 1,500 designated 
sponsors comply with the Exchange Visitor Program regulations. Still it 
lacks all the tools necessary to perform timely, statistically valid, 
and repeatable assessments of the regulatory compliance of the sponsors 
of the ``high risk'' categories of exchange, much less the entire 
sponsor community. The high risk categories are the secondary school 
student, au pair, camp counselor, summer work travel, intern, trainee 
and teacher. They are of high risk because they involve placing young 
adults in homes of strangers, placing young children in the care of 
foreign nationals, or the category is at risk of being abused and used 
as ordinary work or employment programs rather than the educational and 
cultural exchange programs as intended.
    Through these management audits, the Department will be able to 
identify those sponsors who are not complying with the regulations. 
Equally important, the results of these audits will provide a framework 
that will facilitate the application of measured sanctions. That is, 
with a better understanding of the range of non-compliance within a 
given category, the Department can impose appropriate sanctions while 
limiting the risk that it will be accused of being arbitrary or 
capricious. Sponsors would be required to engage independent auditors 
to perform these audits annually, reviewing internal operating 
procedures of the sponsor and the files of a statistically valid 
sampling of a sponsor's program participants. The estimated cost of 
this new requirement to program sponsors is between $6,000 and $10,000. 
The data collection required for management audit templates is within 
the scope of existing data collections (see OMB 1405-0147, Form DS-
7000, Catalog of Information Collection Requirements under 22 CFR Part 
62, the Exchange Visitor Program (SEVIS)).
    This proposed rule also includes a new provision requiring that all 
new applicants for sponsor designation undergo a site visit prior to 
designation. Such site visits, to be conducted by the Department of 
State or a third party on its behalf, will ensure an entity has the 
facilities, staff and equipment necessary to conduct an exchange 
program. On-site reviews of existing sponsors may occur at the 
discretion of the Department. The applicants and/or sponsors will bear 
the cost of these reviews. The site visits and on-site reviews are a 
critical monitoring tool for ensuring data integrity and for ensuring 
the health, safety and welfare of Exchange Visitor Program 
participants. The cost will be determined by the required bi-annual 
user fee study. The Department of State anticipates a fee similar to 
that of the DHS site visit fee of $655, but will not commit to any 
amount until the results of the user fee study have been analyzed.
    The Department of State also proposes to require potential 
Responsible Officers (``RO'') and Alternate Responsible Officers 
(``ARO'') to undergo a criminal background check. This requirement is 
reflective of the importance of the role of such individuals within 
sponsor organizations and their rights of access to and manipulation of 
data for a controlled federal government database. ROs and AROs are the 
only individuals authorized to issue and sign Forms DS-2019, the 
``Certificate of Eligibility for Exchange Visitor (J-1) Status.'' 
Foreign nationals wishing to participate in the Exchange Visitor 
Program must obtain Forms DS-2019 in order to apply for a J-visa to 
gain entry into the United States. Thus, it is of vital importance that 
the individuals who have access to a secured federal government 
database (SEVIS) be properly vetted. The Department of State introduced 
a criminal background check requirement in 2005 for individuals hosting 
secondary school student participants. Conducting annual criminal 
background checks on ROs and AROs will help to strengthen and protect 
the integrity of the Exchange Visitor Program and SEVIS. The costs 
imposed by this requirement on sponsor organizations are estimated to 
be minimal; $15 per RO and ARO which amounts to a maximum annual burden 
of $165 if a sponsor has the maximum level of designated officials.
    The Department of State will not require applicants or sponsors to 
submit the results of the criminal background checks. Rather, the Chief 
Executive Officer, President, or other similar official must submit a 
certification that the organization's RO and AROs have undergone a 
criminal background check as supporting documentation. The sponsor or 
applicant must maintain these records and provide them to the 
Department upon request. The proposed regulation does not set specific 
requirements for the sponsors to follow with respect to report format, 
screening company, or assessment of results. It does anticipate, 
however, that a thorough criminal background check would provide 
management decision makers with sufficient information to determine 
whether ROs and AROs are citizens of the United States or lawful 
permanent residents, whether any record of past criminal activity 
should disqualify them from the positions, and whether there is 
pertinent information regarding their suitability for the proposed 
position such as credit-worthiness or whether they have a criminal 
record that would prevent their appointment. These three areas of 
review are essential in order to determine suitability to hold 
positions that affect national security.
    The Department of State requires that sponsors utilize the services 
of a bona fide background screener. While the Department does not 
sanction any particular screening organization, the only known 
membership organization of bona fide background screeners is the 
National Association of Professional Background Screeners (NAPBS). 
NAPBS has over 700 members (a list of which is located at https://www.NAPBS.com) all of whom are expected to adhere to the NAPBS code of 
conduct governing background investigations and confidentiality. The 
conduct of a criminal background check does not confirm an individual's 
suitability to act as an RO or an ARO and is in no way a substitution 
for the sponsor's judgment in making such decisions.
    The rule proposes, as a requirement of designation, that the 
minimum experience in international exchange for an organization or the 
proposed Responsible Officer be increased from one to three years. Many 
organizations/individuals with minimal experience have been applying 
for designation. These individuals/organizations have typically worked 
with designated sponsors in some capacity or have conducted short term 
exchanges, but lack the full realm of experience in all aspects of 
exchange activities, to include regulatory knowledge, critical to 
administering a successful exchange program. The administration of 
programs in some exchange visitor categories are more complex than 
others (i.e., au pairs and secondary school students which require 
locating and screening host families, schools, local and regional 
coordinators, close monitoring, etc.). It is believed that the 
requirement of three years experience is necessary to develop a strong 
and stable environment for the conduct of the Exchange Visitor Program. 
Applicants may demonstrate experience in international exchange by 
providing resumes, and information on previous

[[Page 48179]]

exchange programs and visas used in the conduct of these activities. 
The collection of the Employer Identification Number (EIN) and Date of 
Issuance for each applicant is also being proposed. This requirement 
ensures that the entity is registered for tax purposes and recognized 
as a bona fide business.
    In July 2007, the Department of State implemented an interim final 
rule on Trainees and Interns that required sponsors to screen, vet and 
enter into written agreements with third parties who assist them in 
recruiting, selecting, screening, orienting, placing, training or 
evaluating foreign nationals who participate in training and internship 
programs (FR 33673, June 19, 2007). This requirement is relevant to 
sponsors who rely upon ``host organizations'' to provide the actual 
training or intern programs, such as a business, law firm, or hotel. It 
also affects foreign agents who play a vital role in the selection of 
potential exchange visitors. The trainee and intern regulations require 
all third parties--foreign and domestic alike-- to provide Dun & 
Bradstreet identification numbers. Similarly, this proposed rule 
requires all applicants for sponsor designation to submit current Dun & 
Bradstreet Business Information Reports on themselves. A current Dun 
and Bradstreet Business Information Report is also required of all 
sponsors with the submission of an application for redesignation. 
Sponsors seeking redesignation will be required to submit a list of all 
third parties with whom sponsors have executed written agreements to 
act on their behalf as well as separate certifications that the 
sponsors have obtained Dun & Bradstreet Business Information Reports on 
all third parties with whom they conduct business. These reports 
provide information on the business operations of an entity (e.g., 
financials, credit history, staffing, pending legal issues, etc.). The 
requirement for these reports will help to ensure that sponsors are 
working with and/or placing exchange visitors with viable third party 
entities. The Department has negotiated with Dun and Bradstreet for a 
reduced rate per report based on the number of designated sponsors and 
third parties. Currently, the cost per report to Department of State 
sponsor organizations is approximately $65.
    This rule proposes to increase the current levels of health 
insurance coverage a sponsor must require that its exchange visitor 
(and spouse and dependents) maintain during the duration of their 
exchange visitor program participation. The current minimum coverage 
has been in place since 1993. The amounts of coverage required is 
considered below current inflation and healthcare costs and does not 
cover actual costs incurred today as reported by the sponsors. We are 
updating the coverage to be consistent with today's amounts. Many 
sponsors currently insure participants at a higher level of coverage 
than that identified in the current regulations. To ensure coverage 
levels remain consistent with recommended industry standards, the 
Department will periodically issue guidance reflecting the mandatory 
minimum levels of coverage. A sponsor must ensure that health insurance 
is in place for each exchange visitor and his/her accompanying spouse 
and dependents for the duration of their exchange visitor program as 
reflected on the Form DS-2019 (Program begin and Program end date.) 
Insurance regulations do not require ``portal to portal'' insurance 
coverage of participants. Such coverage is highly desirable and 
sponsors may, but are not required to, offer this coverage.
    The Department of State proposes to collect information on the 
employment of the accompanying spouse and dependents while in the 
United States. As a security matter, information on the employment 
entity and work location of the spouse and dependents is not collected 
in SEVIS. Capturing this information in SEVIS will allow for better 
monitoring and assist in mitigating risks involving these non-
immigrants.
    Definitions used in the regulations have been added or modified to 
clarify terms or reflect changes. New definitions in this proposed rule 
clarify SEVIS functions or fields or reflect changes that have occurred 
since 1993.
    The term ``accredited educational institution'' has been changed to 
``accredited academic institution''. In the proposed definition, the 
Department of State clarifies that educational institutions that offer 
primarily vocational or technical courses of study are not considered 
academic. The addition of the ``technical'' distinction parallels the 
Department of Education's replacement of regulations governing purely 
``vocational'' studies with a new ``vocational/technical'' 
classification that acknowledges the new information technology 
curricula that are neither vocational nor academic. Vocational programs 
are not included under the Mutual Educational and Cultural Exchange Act 
of 1961.
    Three SEVIS-related definitions have been added to the proposed 
regulations: ``actual and current U.S. address'', ``site of activity'', 
and ``validation.'' The first two definitions are critical as they 
relate to the physical location of the exchange visitor while in the 
United States. Simply put, sponsors must maintain current and accurate 
data in these SEVIS fields so that foreign nationals may be located at 
the site of activity (location where the program will take place) or at 
the actual and current U.S. address (residence). Maintaining this 
information is a matter of national security. The SEVIS function of 
validating a record is similarly important. When an exchange visitor 
enters the United States and reports to his or her exchange program, 
the sponsor must note this occurrence in SEVIS through the validation 
process, thereby demonstrating that an exchange visitor and 
accompanying spouse and dependents, if any, are currently present in 
the United States and that the exchange visitor is participating in the 
exchange visitor program identified on the Form DS-2019. For the 
purpose of this rulemaking, the 30-day requirement for validation 
remains unchanged and is consistent with current Department of Homeland 
Security requirements. The Department is clarifying the regulations on 
updating the SEVIS records upon the failure of an exchange visitor to 
begin his/her exchange program.
    The term ``Certificate of Good Standing'' has been added and, for 
clarity, the definition for ``Citizen of the United States'' has been 
split into two: one that pertains to individuals and another that 
relates to legal entities.
    This rule also reflects changes in technology, and it moves 
requirements previously in Subpart F to Subpart A. The change from 
paper numbered forms to the electronically generated Form DS-2019 
requires two fundamental alterations to the regulations. First, any 
requirements relating to the physical storage of unused forms are 
obsolete. Second, matters of national security require that circulating 
Forms DS-2019 (i.e., those not kept internally in a sponsor's files) 
must be originals. All Forms DS-2019 must be generated through SEVIS. 
The proposed regulations prohibit the use of scanned, copied, or 
electronic versions of Forms DS-2019 except in response to a request 
from the Department of State or the Department of Homeland Security or 
for maintenance of complete exchange visitor records by sponsors. The 
proposed rule also requires sponsors to request that potential program 
participants return unused Forms DS-2019, and that such forms be 
destroyed.
    The proposed rule also clarifies those actions a sponsor must 
undertake to update an exchange visitor's SEVIS record (or the record 
of any accompanying spouse and dependents, if any) when the exchange 
visitor's

[[Page 48180]]

program participation is ended early (e.g., concluded successfully or 
terminated as a result of violation of program rules, regulations or 
U.S. law). The Department of State is reducing from 21 to ten (10) days 
the time a sponsor has following notification of an exchange visitor's 
change of circumstance to update the exchange visitor's SEVIS record 
(or the records of a spouse or dependents).
    Finally, as a record-keeping and administrative oversight matter, 
sponsors will be required to maintain current information in SEVIS on 
its exchange visitor program, address, telephone numbers, facsimile 
numbers, or e-mail addresses. All Department communication to sponsors 
related to program oversight, policy, re-designation, etc., sent to ROs 
and AROs are generated from information contained in SEVIS. The 
Department will not recognize non-receipt of notification of a request 
or other communication from the Department of State or from SEVIS as 
grounds for appeal in cases where a sponsor does not respond to such 
request or communication. Sponsors are required to ensure that their 
spam filters do not block reception of SEVIS or Department of State 
notices. The term ``in writing'' is expanded to include the option for 
electronic signatures to support movement toward a paperless 
environment.

    Note:  Current Sec.  62.17 remains unchanged.

Regulatory Analysis

Administrative Procedure Act

    The Department of State has determined that this Proposed Rule 
involves a foreign affairs function of the United States and is 
consequently exempt from the procedures required by 5 U.S.C. 553 
pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 553(a)(1). Nonetheless, because of its importance 
to the public, the Department has elected to solicit comments during a 
60-day comment period.

Small Business Regulatory Enforcement Fairness Act of 1996

    The Proposed Rule has been found not to be a major rule within the 
meaning of the Small Business Regulatory Enforcement Fairness Act of 
1996.

Regulatory Flexibility Act/Executive Order 13272: Small Business

    Since this Proposed Rule is exempt from 5 U.S.C 553, and no other 
law requires the Department of State to give notice of proposed 
rulemaking, it is not subject to the Regulatory Flexibility Act (5 
U.S.C. 601, et seq.) and Executive Order 13272, Sec.  3(b).

Executive Order 12866, as Amended

    The Department of State does not consider this proposed rule to be 
a ``significant regulatory action'' under Executive Order 12866, as 
amended, Sec.  3(f), Regulatory Planning and Review. In addition, the 
Department of State is exempt from Executive Order 12866 except to the 
extent that it is promulgating regulations in conjunction with a 
domestic agency that are significant regulatory actions. The Department 
has nevertheless reviewed the proposed rule to ensure its consistency 
with the regulatory philosophy and principles set forth in that 
Executive Order.

Executive Order 12988

    The Department of State has reviewed this proposed rule in light of 
Sec. Sec.  3(a) and 3(b)(2) of Executive Order 12988 to eliminate 
ambiguity, minimize litigation, establish clear legal standards, and 
reduce burden.

Unfunded Mandates Reform Act of 1995

    Section 202 of the Unfunded Mandates Reform Act of 1995 (UFMA), 
Public Law 104-4, 109 Stat. 64, 2 U.S.C. 1532, generally requires 
agencies to prepare a statement before proposing any rule that may 
result in an annual expenditure of $100 million or more by state, 
local, or tribal governments, or by the private sector. This rule will 
not result in any such expenditure, nor will it significantly or 
uniquely affect small governments.

Executive Orders 12372 and 13132

    This regulation will not have substantial direct effect on the 
states, on the relationship between the national government and the 
states, or on the distribution of power and responsibilities among the 
various levels of government. Therefore, in accordance with Sec.  6 of 
Executive Order 13132, it is determined that this rule does not have 
sufficient federalism implications to require consultations or warrant 
the preparation of a federalism summary impact statement. Executive 
Order 12372, regarding intergovernmental consultation on federal 
programs and activities, does not apply to this regulation.

Paperwork Reduction Act

    The information collection requirements contained in this proposed 
rulemaking (criminal background screening of Responsible Officers 
(``ROs'') and Alternate Responsible Officers (``AROs'')) are pursuant 
to the Paperwork Reduction Act, 44 U.S.C. Chapter 35. Specifically OMB 
Control Number 1405-0147, expiration date: 09/30/2010, applies: Form 
DS-3037--Update of Information on Exchange Visitor Program Sponsor, 
Form DS-7000--Catalog of Information Collection Requirements Under 22 
CFR Part 62, the Exchange Visitor Program (SEVIS), as well as OMB 
Control Number 1405-0119, expiration date 7/31/2011: DS-2019--
Certificate of Eligibility for Exchange Visitor (J-1) Status. No PRA 
changes are required as a result of this regulation.

List of Subjects in 22 CFR Part 62

    Cultural exchange programs, Reporting and recordkeeping 
requirements.

    Accordingly, 22 CFR Part 62 is proposed to be amended as follows:

PART 62--EXCHANGE VISITOR PROGRAM

    1. The Authority citation for Part 62 continues to read as follows:

    Authority:  8 U.S.C. 1101(a)(15)(J), 1182, 1184, 1258; 22 U.S.C. 
1431-1442, Sec.  2451 et seq.; Foreign Affairs Reform and 
Restructuring Act of 1998, Public Law 105-277, Div. G, 112 Stat. 
2681 et seq.; Reorganization Plan No. 2 of 1977, 3 CFR, 1977 Comp. 
p. 200; E.O. 12048 of March 27, 1978; 3 CFR, 1978 Comp. p. 168; the 
Illegal Immigration Reform and Immigrant Responsibility Act (IIRIRA) 
of 1996, Public Law 104-208, Div. C, 110 Stat. 3009-546, as amended; 
Uniting and Strengthening America by Providing Appropriate Tools 
Required to Intercept and Obstruct Terrorism Act of 2001 (USA 
PATRIOT ACT), Public Law 107-56, Sec. 416, 115 Stat. 354; and the 
Enhanced Border Security and Visa Entry Reform Act of 2002, Public 
Law 107-173, 116 Stat. 543.

    2. Sections 62.2 through 62.16 are revised to read as follows:


Sec.  62.2  Definitions.

    The following definitions apply to this part:
    Accompanying spouse and dependents. The alien spouse and minor 
unmarried children of an exchange visitor who are accompanying or 
following to join the exchange visitor and who seek to enter or have 
entered the United States temporarily on a non-immigrant J-2 visa or 
seeks to acquire or have acquired such status after admission. For the 
purpose of these regulations, a minor is a person under the age of 21.
    Accredited academic institution. Any publicly or privately operated 
primary, secondary, or post-secondary institution in the United States 
that offers primarily academic programs and is duly

[[Page 48181]]

accredited by the appropriate academic accrediting authority of the 
state in which such institution is located; provided, however, that in 
addition, all post-secondary institutions must also be accredited by a 
nationally recognized accrediting agency or association as recognized 
by the Secretary of Education. An institution that offers primarily 
vocational or technical programs does not fall within the purview of an 
academic institution for this purpose.
    Act. The Mutual Educational and Cultural Exchange Act of 1961, as 
amended.
    Actual and current U.S. address. The physical, geographic location 
at which an exchange visitor resides while participating in an exchange 
program.
    Alternate Responsible Officer (``ARO''). An employee or officer of 
a designated sponsor who has been nominated by the sponsor, and 
approved by the Department of State to assist the Responsible Officer 
in carrying out the responsibilities outlined in Sec.  62.11. An ARO 
must be a citizen of the United States or a lawful permanent resident 
of the United States.
    Certificate of Good Standing. A document issued by an official of 
the Department of State in the state where the organization resides. A 
Certificate of Good Standing confirms that a corporation, partnership 
or other legal entity is in existence or authorized to transact 
business. A Certificate of Good Standing is also known as a Certificate 
of Authorization or a Certificate of Existence.
    Citizen of the United States (entity).
    (1) A general or limited partnership created or organized under the 
laws of the United States, or of any state, the District of Columbia, 
or any territory or outlying possessions of the United States, of which 
a majority of the partners are citizens of the United States:
    (i) Which has its principal place of business in the United States; 
and
    (ii) In instances where the partnership is additionally governed by 
a Board, the majority of whose officers are citizens of the United 
States; or
    (2) A for-profit corporation, association, or other legal entity 
created or organized under the laws of the United States, or of any 
state, the District of Columbia, or a territory or outlying possessions 
of the United States, whose principal place of business is located in 
the United States, and
    (i) Whose shares or voting interests are publicly traded on a U.S. 
stock exchange; or
    (ii) A majority of whose officers, a majority of whose 
shareholders, and a majority of the members of its Board of Directors 
are citizens of the United States and collectively hold a majority of 
the shares or stock (i.e., the controlling interest); or
    (3) A non-profit corporation, association, or other legal entity 
created or organized under the laws of the United States, or any state, 
the District of Columbia, or any territory or outlying possessions of 
the United States; and
    (i) Which is qualified with the Internal Revenue Service as a tax-
exempt organization pursuant to section 501(c)(3) of the Internal 
Revenue Code; and
    (ii) Whose principal place of business is located in the United 
States; and
    (iii) A majority of whose officers and a majority of whose members 
of its Board of Directors, Board of Trustees or other like body vested 
with its management are citizens of the United States; or
    (4) An accredited college, university, or other post-secondary 
academic institution in the United States created or organized under 
the laws of the United States, or of any state, county, municipality, 
or other political subdivision thereof, the District of Columbia, or of 
any territory or outlying possession of the United States; or
    (5) An agency of the United States, or of any state or local 
government, the District of Columbia, or any territory or outlying 
possession of the United States.
    Citizen of the United States (individual). A person who:
    (1) Is a citizen or national of the United States or any of its 
territories or outlying possessions; or
    (2) Has been lawfully admitted for permanent residence, within the 
meaning of section 101(a)(20) of the Immigration and Nationality Act (8 
U.S.C. 1101).
    Clerical work. Routine administrative work generally performed in 
an office or office-like setting, such as data entry, filing, typing, 
mail sorting and distribution, and other general administrative or 
support office tasks.
    Consortium. A not-for-profit corporation, partnership, joint 
venture or other association formed by two or more accredited academic 
institutions for the purpose of sharing educational resources, 
conducting research, and/or developing new programs to enrich or expand 
the opportunities offered by its members. An academic institution in 
the United States that participates in a consortium is not barred from 
having separate exchange visitor program designations of its own.
    Country of nationality or last legal permanent residence. The 
country of which the exchange visitor is a national at the time status 
as an exchange visitor was acquired or the last foreign country in 
which the visitor had a legal permanent residence before acquiring 
status as an exchange visitor.
    Cross-cultural activity. An activity designed to promote exposure 
and interchange between exchange visitors and Americans so as to 
increase their understanding of each other's society, culture, and 
institutions.
    Department of State. The United States Department of State.
    Designation. The written authorization given by the Department of 
State to an exchange visitor program applicant to conduct an exchange 
visitor program as a sponsor.
    Employee. An individual who provides services or labor for an 
employer for wages or other remuneration. A third party, as defined in 
this section, or an independent contractor, as defined in 8 CFR 
274a.1(j), is not an employee.
    Exchange visitor. A foreign national who is in the United States 
temporarily on a non-immigrant J-1 visa to participate in an exchange 
visitor program. The term does not include the accompanying spouse and 
dependents of the exchange visitor.
    Exchange Visitor Program. The international exchange program 
administered by the Department of State to implement the Act by means 
of educational and cultural exchange programs. When ``exchange visitor 
program'' is set forth in lower case, it refers to the individual 
program of a sponsor that has been designated by the Department of 
State.
    Exchange visitor's government. The government of the exchange 
visitor's country of nationality or last legal permanent residence.
    Financed directly. Financed in whole or in part by the U.S. 
Government or the exchange visitor's government with funds contributed 
directly to the exchange visitor in connection with his or her 
participation in an exchange visitor program.
    Financed indirectly. (1) Financed by an international organization 
with funds contributed by either the United States or the exchange 
visitor's government for use in financing international educational and 
cultural exchanges, or
    (2) Financed by an organization or institution with funds made 
available by either the United States or the exchange visitor's 
government for the purpose of furthering international educational and 
cultural exchange.

[[Page 48182]]

    Foreign Medical Graduate. A foreign national that:
    (1) Is a graduate of a school of medicine that is accredited by a 
body or bodies approved for the purpose by the Secretary of Education 
(regardless of whether such school of medicine is in the United States) 
and entering the United States for the purpose of seeking to pursue 
graduate medical education or training at accredited schools of 
medicine or scientific institutions; or, for the purposes of 
observation, consultation, teaching, or research; or,
    (2) Has passed Parts I and II of the National Board of Medical 
Examiners Examination (or an equivalent examination as determined by 
the Secretary of Health and Human Services), has competency in oral and 
written English, will be able to adapt to the educational and cultural 
environment in which he or she will be receiving his/her education or 
training, and has adequate prior education and training to participate 
satisfactorily in the program for which he/she is coming to the United 
States.
    Form DS-2019. A Certificate of Eligibility for Exchange Visitor (J-
1) Status, a controlled document of the Department of State.
    Form DS-3036. Exchange Visitor Program Application, a controlled 
document of the Department of State.
    Form DS-3037. Update of Information on a Sponsor's Exchange Visitor 
Program. A controlled document of the Department of State.
    Form DS-7002. Training/Internship Placement Plan (T/IPP). A 
controlled document of the Department of State. This Form is for use in 
connection with the Trainee, Intern and Student Intern categories only.
    Full course of study. Full-time enrollment in an academic program 
of classroom participation and study and/or doctoral thesis research at 
an accredited academic institution as follows:
    (1) Secondary school students must satisfy the attendance and 
course requirements of the state in which the school they attend are 
located; and
    (2) College and university students must register for and complete 
a full course of study, as defined by the accredited academic 
institution in which the student is registered, unless exempted in 
accordance with Sec.  62.23(e).
    Graduate medical education or training. Participation in a program 
in which a foreign medical graduate will receive graduate medical 
education or training, which generally consists of a residency or 
fellowship program involving health care services to patients, but does 
not include programs involving observation, consultation, teaching or 
research in which there is no or only incidental patient care. This 
program may consist of a medical specialty, a directly related medical 
subspecialty, or both.
    Home-country physical presence requirement. The requirement that an 
exchange visitor (J visa) who is within the purview of section 212(e) 
of the Immigration and Nationality Act, as amended, and Public Law 94-
484 (substantially quoted in 22 CFR 41.63) must reside and be 
physically present in the country of nationality or last legal 
permanent residence for an aggregate of at least two years following 
departure from the United States before the exchange visitor is 
eligible to apply for an immigrant visa or permanent residence, a non-
immigrant H visa as a temporary worker or trainee, or a non-immigrant L 
visa, as an intracompany transferee, or a non-immigrant H or L visa as 
the spouse or minor child of a person who has been granted status in H 
or L non-immigrant classification as a temporary worker or trainee or 
an intracompany transferee. See section 101(a)(15)(H) or section 
101(a)(15)(L) of the Immigration and Nationality Act, as amended.
    Host organization. A third party in the United States that conducts 
training and internship programs on behalf of a designated sponsor 
pursuant to an executed written agreement between the two parties.
    Internship program. A structured and guided work-based learning 
program as set forth in an individualized T/IPP that reinforces an 
intern's academic study; recognizes the need for work-based experience; 
provides on-the-job exposure to American techniques, methodologies, and 
technologies; and enhances the intern's knowledge of American culture 
and society.
    J visa. A non-immigrant visa issued pursuant to 8 U.S.C. 
1101(a)(15)(J). A J-1 visa is issued to an exchange visitor. A J-2 visa 
is issued to the exchange visitor's accompanying non-immigrant 
immediate family, spouse and minor dependent children.
    Office of Designation. The Department of State office to which the 
Secretary of State delegated the authority to administer the Exchange 
Visitor Program.
    On-the-job training. An individual's observation of and 
participation in given tasks demonstrated by experienced workers for 
the purpose of acquiring competency in such tasks.
    Prescribed course of study. A non-degree academic program with a 
specific educational objective. Such course of study may include 
intensive English language training, classroom instruction, research 
projects, and/or academic training to the extent permitted in Sec.  
62.23.
    Reciprocity. The participation of a U.S. citizen in an educational 
and cultural program in a foreign country in exchange for the 
participation of a foreign national in the Exchange Visitor Program. 
Where used herein, ``reciprocity'' will be interpreted broadly; unless 
otherwise specified, reciprocity does not require a one-for-one 
exchange or that exchange visitors be engaged in the same activity.
    Responsible Officer (``RO''). An employee or officer of a 
designated sponsor who has been nominated by the sponsor, and approved 
by the Department of State to carry out the duties outlined in Sec.  
62.11. An RO must be a citizen of the United States or a lawful 
permanent resident of the United States.
    Secretary of State. The Secretary of State or an employee of the 
U.S. Department of State acting under a delegation of authority from 
the Secretary of State.
    SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System). The 
statutorily mandated system designed to collect information on non-
immigrant students (F and M visa), exchange visitors (J visa), and 
their spouses and dependents (F-2, M-2, and J-2). SEVIS enables schools 
and program sponsors to electronically transmit information and event 
notifications, via the Internet, to the Department of Homeland Security 
and the Department of State throughout a student's or exchange 
visitor's stay in the United States.
    Site of activity. The physical, geographic location(s) where an 
exchange visitor participates in his or her exchange program. If a 
program takes place at more than one location, the sponsor must list 
all locations in SEVIS and indicate as ``primary'' the one at which the 
exchange visitor is currently located.
    Sponsor. A legal entity designated by the Secretary of State to 
conduct an exchange visitor program.
    Staffing/employment agency. A U.S. business that hires individuals 
for the express purpose of supplying workers to other businesses. 
Typically, the other businesses where workers are placed pay an hourly 
fee per employee to the staffing/employment agency, of which the worker 
receives a percentage.
    Student internship program. A structured and guided work-based 
learning program as set forth in an individualized Form DS-7002 that 
fulfills a student's academic degree requirements, recognizes the need 
for

[[Page 48183]]

work-based experience, provides on-the-job exposure to American 
techniques, methodologies, and technologies, and enhances a student 
intern's knowledge of American culture and society.
    Third party. A person or legal entity with whom a sponsor has 
executed a written agreement for the person or entity to act on behalf 
of the sponsor in the conduct of the sponsor's exchange visitor 
program. A third party under contract with a sponsor may not 
subcontract or delegate its Exchange Visitor Program obligations to 
another party. Sponsors are required to take all reasonable steps to 
ensure that third parties know and comply with all applicable 
provisions of these regulations. The Department of State imputes to 
sponsors all actions a third party takes in acting on their behalf.
    Training program. A structured and guided work-based learning 
program, as set forth in Form DS-7002, that develops new and advanced 
skills in a trainee's occupational field through exposure to American 
techniques, methodologies, and technologies; and enhances a trainee's 
understanding of American culture and society.
    Validation. The process by which a Responsible Officer or Alternate 
Responsible Officer updates a SEVIS record of an exchange visitor (and 
accompanying spouse and dependents, if any) to show that the 
prospective exchange visitor (and accompanying spouse and dependents, 
if any) entered the United States, reported to his or her sponsor, and 
is participating in the exchange visitor program, at the site of 
activity identified on the Form DS-2019.


Sec.  62.3  Sponsor eligibility.

    (a) Entities eligible to apply for designation as a sponsor of an 
exchange visitor program are the following:
    (1) U.S. local, state and federal government agencies to include 
the District of Columbia; and government agencies of any U.S. 
territories and outlying possessions;
    (2) International agencies or organizations of which the United 
States is a member and that have an office in the United States; or
    (3) Reputable organizations that are ``citizens of the United 
States,'' as that term is defined in Sec.  62.2.
    (b) To be eligible for designation as a sponsor, an entity is 
required to:
    (1) Demonstrate, to the Department of State's satisfaction, its 
ability to comply and remain in continual compliance with all 
applicable provisions of 22 CFR Part 62;
    (2) Meet at all times its financial obligations and 
responsibilities attendant to successful sponsorship of its exchange 
visitor program;
    (3) Demonstrate that the organization or its proposed RO has no 
fewer than three years experience in international exchange; and
    (4) Has successfully completed a site visit conducted by the 
Department of State or its agent, the cost for which will be borne by 
the applicant.


Sec.  62.4  Categories of participant eligibility.

    Sponsors select foreign nationals to participate in exchange 
visitor program(s) in the United States. Participation is limited to 
foreign nationals who meet the following criteria for each of the 
following categories:
    (a) Student. A foreign national who is:
    (1) Studying in the United States and:
    (i) Pursuing a full course of study at a secondary accredited 
academic institution;
    (ii) Pursuing a full course of study leading to or culminating in 
the award of a U.S. degree from a post-secondary accredited academic 
institution; or
    (iii) Engaged full-time in a prescribed course of study of up to 24 
months (non-degree) duration conducted by:
    (A) A post-secondary accredited academic institution; or
    (B) An institute approved by or acceptable to the post-secondary 
accredited academic institution, where the student is to be enrolled 
upon completion of the non-degree program;
    (2) Engaged in academic training as permitted in Sec.  62.23(f);
    (3) Engaged in English language training at:
    (i) A post-secondary accredited academic institution, or
    (ii) An institute approved by or acceptable to the post-secondary 
accredited academic institution where the college/university student is 
to be enrolled upon completion of the language training; or
    (4) Engaged full-time in a student internship program conducted by 
a post-secondary accredited educational institution.
    (b) Short-term scholar. A foreign national who is a professor, 
research scholar, or person with similar education or accomplishments 
who enters the United States on a short-term visit for the purpose of 
lecturing, observing, consulting, training, or demonstrating special 
skills at research institutions, museums, libraries, post-secondary 
accredited academic institutions, or similar types of institutions.
    (c) Trainee. A foreign national participating in a structured and 
guided work-based training program in his or her specific occupational 
field and who has either:
    (1) A degree or professional certificate from a foreign post-
secondary academic institution and at least one year of prior related 
work experience in his or her occupational field acquired outside the 
United States; or
    (2) Five years of work experience in his or her occupational field 
acquired outside the United States. Training is limited to the 
occupational category or categories for which a sponsor has obtained 
designation.
    (d) Teacher. A foreign national with a minimum of three years of 
teaching experience for the purpose of teaching full-time in a primary 
or secondary accredited academic institution.
    (e) Professor. A foreign national whose primary purpose is 
teaching, lecturing, observing, or consulting at post-secondary 
accredited academic institutions, museums, libraries, or similar types 
of institutions. A professor may also conduct research, unless 
disallowed by the sponsor.
    (f) Research scholar. A foreign national whose primary purpose is 
conducting research, observing, or consulting in connection with a 
research project at research institutions, corporate research 
facilities, museums, libraries, post-secondary accredited academic 
institutions, or similar types of institutions. A research scholar may 
also lecture, unless disallowed by the sponsor.
    (g) Specialist. A foreign national who is an expert in a field of 
specialized knowledge or skills who enters the United States for the 
purpose of observing, consulting, or demonstrating special knowledge or 
skills.
    (h) Other person of similar description. A foreign national of 
description similar to those set forth in paragraphs (a) through (g) of 
this section coming to the United States as a participant in an 
exchange visitor program designated by the Department of State under 
this category, for the purpose of teaching, instructing or lecturing, 
studying, observing, conducting research, consulting, demonstrating 
special skills, or receiving training. The programs designated by the 
Department of State in this category consist of:
    (1) Alien physician. A foreign national who is a graduate of a 
school of medicine who is coming to the United States under a program 
in which he or she will receive graduate medical education or training 
conducted by accredited U.S. schools of medicine or scientific 
institutions.
    (2) International visitor. A foreign national who is a recognized 
or

[[Page 48184]]

potential leader, selected by the Department of State for the purpose 
of consulting, observing, conducting research, training, or 
demonstrating special skills in the United States.
    (3) Government visitor. A foreign national who is an influential or 
distinguished person, selected by a U.S. federal, state, or local 
government agency for the purpose of consulting, observing, training, 
or demonstrating special skills in the United States.
    (4) Camp counselor. A foreign national selected to be a counselor 
in a summer camp in the United States (e.g., during the U.S. summer 
months).
    (5) Au pair. A foreign national who comes to the United States for 
a period of one year for the purpose of residing with an American host 
family and participate directly in their home life, while providing 
limited childcare services, and fulfilling an educational requirement.
    (6) Summer Work and Travel. A foreign national who is a bona fide 
foreign post-secondary student currently enrolled in and actively 
pursuing a degree or a full-time course of study at a foreign 
accredited post-secondary academic institution whose purpose is work 
and travel in the United States for up to four months during his or her 
summer vacation.
    (7) Intern. A foreign national participating in a structured and 
guided work-based internship program in his or her specific academic 
field and who is either:
    (i) Currently enrolled full-time in and actively pursuing studies 
at a degree- or certificate-granting post-secondary academic 
institution outside the United States; or
    (ii) Graduated from such an institution no more than 12 months 
prior to the exchange visitor program begin date reflected on the Form 
DS-2019.


Sec.  62.5  Application procedure.

    (a) An entity meeting the eligibility requirements set forth in 
Sec.  62.3 may apply to the Department of State for designation as an 
Exchange Visitor Program sponsor. Designation will not be considered if 
an applicant cannot meet the eligibility requirements set forth in 
Sec.  62.3. An applicant must first complete and submit Form DS-3036 in 
SEVIS. The complete application must consist of:
    (1) A completed copy of Form DS-3036 signed by the applicant's 
Chief Executive Officer, President, or equivalent;
    (2) Required supporting documentation and certifications as set 
forth herein; and
    (3) Confirmation of payment of the required fee through pay.gov as 
set forth in Sec.  62.17.
    (b) The complete application must set forth, in detail, the 
applicant's proposed exchange program activity and must demonstrate, to 
the Department of State's sole satisfaction, the applicant's ability to 
meet the designation requirements set forth in Sec.  62.3 and the 
sponsor obligations set forth in Sec.  62.9.
    (c) Applications must be accompanied by the following supporting 
documents:
    (1) Evidence of legal status of the applicant as a U.S. 
corporation, partnership, or other legal entity (e.g., charter, proof 
of incorporation, partnership agreement, as applicable) as set forth in 
Sec.  62.3(a);
    (2) Evidence of experience in operating a successful business, 
including a minimum of three years of experience in international 
exchange by the organization or by the proposed RO;
    (3) Evidence of the applicant's financial viability as set forth in 
Sec.  62.9(e) and any supplemental or explanatory financial information 
the Department of State may request.
    (i) An established organization must present a current audit report 
with audit notes prepared by an independent certified public accounting 
firm.
    (ii) A newly formed organization must present a compilation (a 
balance sheet, statement of cash flows and all disclosures, revenues, 
expenditures, and notes to financial statements) prepared by an 
independent certified public accounting firm demonstrating that the 
organization has been capitalized with sufficient funds to cover 
general operating expenses and costs associated with an exchange;
    (iii) The Department of State may, in its sole discretion, 
condition its approval of the acceptance of full financial 
responsibility by the non-governmental sponsor by requiring such 
sponsor to secure a payment bond in favor of the Department 
guaranteeing the sponsor's obligations hereunder.
    (4) A current Certificate of Good Standing or Certificate of 
Existence;
    (5) Employer Identification Number (EIN) and Date of Issuance;
    (6) A current Business Information Report on the applicant 
organization from Dun & Bradstreet;
    (7) Evidence of current accreditation if the applicant is a 
secondary or post-secondary academic institution;
    (8) Evidence of current licensure, if required by local, state, or 
federal law, to carry out the activity for which it is seeking 
designation;
    (9) A statement signed by the Chief Executive Officer, President, 
or equivalent certifying that:
    (i) The applicant is a citizen of the United States as defined in 
Sec.  62.2;
    (ii) The proposed RO and all proposed ARO(s) are United States 
citizens or lawful permanent residents of the United States;
    (iii) The sponsor has completed a criminal background check on the 
potential RO and all ARO(s) and has determined their suitability for 
these positions; and
    (iv) The RO will be provided sufficient staff and resources to 
fulfill his or her duties and obligations on behalf of the applicant.
    (10) Evidence that the proposed RO and ARO(s) are citizens of the 
United States or lawful permanent residents of the United States (e.g., 
copy of passport, birth certificate);
    (11) A completed SEVIS generated Citizenship Certification for the 
proposed RO and all proposed ARO(s); and
    (12) Such additional information or documentation that the 
Department of State may deem necessary to evaluate the application.


Sec.  62.6  Designation.

    (a) Upon its favorable determination that an applicant meets all 
statutory and regulatory requirements, the Department of State may, in 
its sole discretion, designate the applicant as an Exchange Visitor 
Program sponsor. Initial designations are effective for one or two 
years at the sole discretion of the Department. The initial designation 
period for a newly formed organization will be limited to one year.
    (b) Designation will confer upon a sponsor the authority to engage 
in one or more activities specified in Sec.  62.4. A sponsor may engage 
only in the activity or activities specifically authorized in its 
written letter of designation.
    (c) Designations are not transferable or assignable.


Sec.  62.7  Redesignation.

    (a) A sponsor must file for redesignation no more than six months 
and no fewer than three months before the designation expiration date 
as set forth in the sponsor's letter of designation or its most recent 
letter of redesignation. Failure to apply for redesignation according 
to this schedule is cause for termination pursuant to Sec.  62.60(g).
    (b) A sponsor seeking redesignation as an Exchange Visitor Program 
sponsor must first complete and submit Form DS-3036 in SEVIS. The 
complete application must consist of:
    (1) A completed copy of Form DS-3036, signed by the sponsor's Chief 
Financial Officer, President or equivalent;

[[Page 48185]]

    (2) Required supporting documentation and certifications as set 
forth herein; and
    (3) Confirmation of payment of the required non-refundable fee 
through pay.gov as set forth in Sec.  62.17.
    (c) The complete application must include the following supporting 
documentation and certifications:
    (1) A current Business Information Report from Dun & Bradstreet on 
the sponsor;
    (2) A list of all third parties (foreign and domestic) with whom 
the sponsor has executed a written agreement for the person or entity 
to act on behalf of the sponsor in the conduct of the sponsor's 
exchange visitor program and, if requested by the Department of State, 
a separate certification that the sponsor has obtained a Dun & 
Bradstreet Business Information Report for each third party. The list 
should include the name of the third party organization, address of the 
third party organization, purpose for agreement, and contact 
information;
    (3) A copy of the most recent year-end financial statements;
    (4) A copy of the most recent letter of accreditation if the 
sponsor is a secondary or post-secondary academic institution;
    (5) A list of the names, addresses and citizenship of the current 
members of its Board of Directors or the Board of Trustees or other 
like body, vested with the management of the organization or 
partnership, and/or the percentage of stocks/shares held, as 
applicable;
    (6) For a non-profit organization, a signed copy of the sponsor's 
most recent Form 990 filed with the Internal Revenue Service;
    (7) Such additional information or documentation that the 
Department of State may request;
    (8) A statement signed by the Chief Executive Officer, President, 
or equivalent certifying that the sponsor has completed a criminal 
background check on the RO and all AROs and has determined their 
suitability for these positions; and
    (9) Such additional information or documentation that the 
Department of State may deem necessary to evaluate the application.
    (d) Upon its favorable determination that a sponsor meets all 
statutory and regulatory requirements, the Department of State may, in 
its sole discretion, redesignate the organization as an Exchange 
Visitor Program sponsor for one or two years.


Sec.  62.8  General program requirements.

    (a) Size of program. A sponsor, other than a federal government 
agency, must have no fewer than five actively participating exchange 
visitors during the annual reporting cycle (e.g., academic, calendar or 
fiscal) as stated in its letter of designation or redesignation. The 
Department of State may, in its sole discretion and for good cause 
shown, waive this requirement.
    (b) Minimum duration of program. A sponsor, other than a federal 
government agency, must provide each exchange visitor, except those 
sponsored in the short-term scholar category, with a minimum period of 
participation in the United States of no less than three weeks.
    (c) Reciprocity. In conducting its exchange visitor program, a 
sponsor must make a good faith effort to develop and implement, to the 
fullest extent possible, a reciprocal exchange of persons.
    (d) Cross-cultural activities. A sponsor must:
    (1) Offer or make available to exchange visitors and the 
accompanying spouse and dependents, if any, a variety of appropriate 
cross-cultural activities. The extent and type of the cross-cultural 
activities will be determined by the needs and interests of the 
particular category of exchange visitor. A sponsor will be responsible 
for determining the appropriate type and number of such cross-cultural 
programs. The Department of State encourages sponsors to give their 
exchange visitors the broadest exposure to American society, culture 
and institutions; and
    (2) Encourage exchange visitors to participate voluntarily in 
activities that are for the purpose of sharing the language, culture, 
or history of their home country with Americans, provided such 
activities do not delay the completion of the exchange visitors' 
program.


Sec.  62.9  General obligations of sponsors.

    (a) Adherence to Department of State regulations. A sponsor is 
required to adhere to all regulations set forth in this Part. A sponsor 
who willfully or negligently fails to comply will be subject to the 
sanctions set forth in Sec.  62.50 or termination as set forth in Sec.  
62.60.
    (b) Legal status. A sponsor must maintain legal status or its 
designation will terminate pursuant to Sec.  62.60(e). A sponsor's 
change in legal status (e.g., from partnership to corporation, non-
profit to for-profit) requires the submission of a new application for 
designation of the successor legal entity within 45 days of the change 
in legal status.
    (c) Accreditation and licensure. A sponsor must remain in 
compliance with all local, state, and federal laws, and professional 
requirements necessary to carry out the activities for which it is 
designated, including accreditation and licensure, if applicable.
    (d) Representations and disclosures. A sponsor must:
    (1) Provide accurate and complete information, to the extent 
lawfully permitted, to the Department of State and the Department of 
Homeland Security regarding its exchange visitor program, exchange 
visitors, and accompanying spouse and dependents (if any);
    (2) Provide accurate information to the public when advertising its 
exchange visitor program(s) or responding to public inquiries;
    (3) Provide informational materials to prospective exchange 
visitors, and host families, if applicable, that clearly explain the 
activities, costs, conditions, and restrictions of its exchange visitor 
program(s);
    (4) Not use the program number(s) assigned by the Department of 
State at time of designation on any advertising materials or 
publications intended for general circulation, including sponsor Web 
sites; and
    (5) Not represent that its exchange visitor program is endorsed, 
sponsored, or supported by the Department of State or the U.S. 
Government, except for U.S. Government sponsors or exchange visitor 
programs financed directly by the U.S. Government to promote 
international educational exchanges. A sponsor may, however, represent 
that it is designated by the Department of State as a sponsor of an 
exchange visitor program.
    (e) Financial responsibility. (1) A sponsor must maintain the 
financial capability to meet at all times its financial obligations and 
responsibilities attendant to successful sponsorship of its exchange 
visitor program.
    (2) The Department of State may require a non-government sponsor to 
provide evidence satisfactory to the Department that funds necessary to 
fulfill all obligations and responsibilities attendant to sponsorship 
of its exchange visitor program are readily available and in the 
sponsor's control, inclu