Hoping to apply for a J1? There may be some big changes ahead… The hugely popular J1 programme to the USA has been a big draw for Irish students for a number of years. However, according to Taoiseach Enda Kenny, there could be a number of changes to these visas. Speaking in the Dáil this week, Mr. Kenny stated that “the authorities that issue J1 visas seem to be bent on introducing a requirement for pre-employment for young people before they go.” Essentially what this means is that students may have to organize a job in the States before they go. It was also suggested that as a result, the new rules may include a restriction on the number of visas approved by officials in the US. “I am unaware of the extent of the paperwork and administration that may be involved, but if that were to happen it could lead to two things,” Mr. Kenny stated. “First, a serious reduction in the number of J1 visas granted to Ireland; it could perhaps be down by as much as 60 or 80 per cent. “Second, people who travel out on holiday visas may then decide to work illegally, which would only cause trouble for themselves and everyone else afterwards.”