Expert: Roberto Gomes - 9/24/2008

Question
I work for a company that brings international people to the US.  We currently offer round trip airline tickets for their first year.  The company is looking to adjust its policy and only provide a one-way ticket.  Since we sponsor these people on a J1 visa, we can't purchase round trip tickets and then have the individual not utilize the return portion of their ticket.  It will hurt our status with the Department of State (DOS).  

Financially, is it cheaper to do one-way tickets versus round trip?

Answer
Dear Danny,

As you know the J1 visas are issued individuals who take part in a wide range of exchange visitor programs sponsored by schools, businesses, and a variety of organizations and institutions. These individuals MUST return home after the programs are completed.

One-way tickets are based on a full non-restricted fare and are always more expensive than the round-trip ones.

Also note that I imagine that Homeland Security can track individuals and/or sponsor companies that may violate the terms and conditions of the J1 visa.

Hope this helps,
Best regards.
R. Gomes