Some exchange visitors with J-1 visas are subject to a two-year home-country physical presence requirement. It requires you to return home for at least two years after your exchange visitor program. This requirement is part of U.S. law, in the Immigration and Nationality Act, Section 212(e). If you cannot return home for two years, you must apply for a waiver. The Department of Homeland Security must approve your waiver before you can change status in the United States or receive a visa in certain categories.
Select Eligibility Information about J-1 exchange visitors are subject to the two-year home-country physical presence requirement and whether a waiver is available to you.
Select Instructions and Online DS-3035 to learn more and access the online form to request a recommendation for a waiver from the Department of State’s Waiver Review Division.
Select J Visa Waiver Online to change your address or contact information and to check the status of your waiver.