Extending DS-2019

Extension of Stay For J-1 Exchange Visitors in the Research Scholar and Professor Categories

When To Extend

Your permission to stay in the United States ends on the date shown in item #3 of your Form DS-2019, "Certificate of Eligibility for Exchange Visitor (J-1) Status."   You must submit an Extension Application PRIOR to the expiration date on your current DS-2019.

How to Extend

To extend your J program, your department must obtain and complete a J-1 Scholar Application Form.

Proof of health insurance and adequate financial support must accompany the application form. If materials are sufficient and the EV is eligible for an extension, a new form DS-2019 will be generated and the EV's stay in the U.S. will be extended.

Eligibility

You are eligible to apply for an extension of stay if:

• You are working toward the objective shown on your most recent Form DS-2019;
• You are maintaining your status as a J-1 Exchange Visitor;
• You can demonstrate adequate funding for the period of the proposed extension;
• You can demonstrate continued health insurance for the duration of time listed on your appointment letter. The insurance must meet Department of State requirements;
• Your extension will not carry you beyond five years in status as a J-1 Visiting Professor or Research Scholar. If you need to stay longer than five years, call ISSS at 215.204.7708 to schedule an appointment with Sharon Loughran.

Travel Outside the US

If you leave North America you will need a valid J-1 visa stamp to reenter this country (unless you are Canadian). Do not assume that with an approved extension of stay you can reenter this country from another continent without a valid J-1 visa stamp in your passport (unless you are Canadian). If yours has expired, you will have to apply for a new one at a United States consulate abroad. Your dependents will need J-2 visas, and you should be prepared to show proof of marriage to your spouse and parenthood of each child.

CAUTION:  Extension of your permission to stay is your responsibility. If you are employed and overlook the date, you will be working illegally. Since such mistakes can have serious consequences, you should make certain that you apply well in advance (three months is recommended) if you need to extend your stay.