Extension of Stay for International Students in J-1 Exchange Visitor Classification
The following outlines the procedures for extending your permission to stay in the United States - either to complete your program of study, or to start/complete your "Academic Training" (study-related employment).
When to Extend
Your permission to stay in the United States ends on the expiration date of your I-94 Departure Record card - unless the card is marked "Duration of Status" or "D/S." In that case your permission to stay expires 30 days after the date shown in item #3 of your Form DS-2019, "Certificate of Eligibility for Exchange Visitor (J-1) Status". Apply for an extension at least 60 days prior to the date shown in item #3 of your Form DS-2019.
Your J-1 Responsible Officer
To extend your permission to stay in the United States, you must first obtain a new Form DS-2019 from your J-1 Responsible Officer, who will need proof of your eligibility before issuing the Form. If UNH is your J-1 sponsor, then your Responsible Officer is a member of the OISS staff. If your J-1 sponsor is an agency, and if you are uncertain how to reach your Responsible Officer, the OISS staff can help you find this information.
- studying full-time at the school named on your Form DS-2019 and making satisfactory academic progress and have adequate funding; or
- have completed your program of study and want to participate in "Academic Training;" or
- are participating in an authorized "Academic Training" program and, within the established time limits, need an extension to finish the program.
Procedures
Obtain a letter from your faculty adviser confirming your continued academic progress, full-time student status, and date of program completion. You must also secure an updated letter of award (e.g., scholarship or assistantship), bank statement, or other documents to show sufficient financial support to cover the period of extension. Submit all materials to the OISS staff or to your J-1 Responsible Officer at least 60 days before your permission to stay expires.
The OISS will review your materials and issue a new DS-2019 if you meet all the requirements. You will then be advised of appropriate procedures to follow to complete the extension.
A Word of Caution
Extension of your permission to stay is your responsibility. If you forget the deadline and apply late, your application will be denied. 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 (60 days is recommended) if you need to extend your stay.
