Program Modifications
Extensions
Permission to stay in the US ends on the date shown on the I-94 Departure Record card unless the card is marked “D/S” or “Duration of Status.” Most J-1 Exchange Visitors will see D/S marked on their I-94 cards and DS-2019s. In this case, program activities must end on the program date and permission to stay in the USA will expire 30 days after the program expiration date on the DS-2019.
Overstaying one’s status (i.e. program end date + 30-day grace period) is a SERIOUS immigration violation that almost always has long-term consequences. Any future visa applications are likely to be denied, regardless of the visa classification or purpose of visit.
If an extension within the maximum time allowed for a particular program category is necessary, an exchange visitor should contact the J-1 Responsible Officer/Alternate Responsible Officer to request an extension at least 2 months before the expiration date on the DS-2019. The exchange visitor should bring proof of your funding sources and health insurance for the period of the extension. The RO/ARO will determine if the exchange visitor has been maintaining program status and that the extension meets the criteria for approval. If approved, the RO/ARO will amend the program in SEVIS and issue a new DS-2019. Extensions must be processed in SEVIS before the program end date.
J-1 Professors and Research Scholars are limited to a maximum period offive years. There are a few exceptions to this rule:
For more information, please contact the Responsible Officer. You may also refer here for more information.