New J-1 student worker regulations published in the Federal Register

An interim-final rule revising the regulations governing J-1 student workers was published in the Federal Register on April 26th. The rule carries a 60-day public comment period, and takes effect July 15th. A key provision of the new regulations is that beginning with winter 2011/2012 only participants from Visa Waiver countries may enter the U.S. without a confirmed job placement. Employers should plan ahead to hire J-1 student workers early for all seasons.