SPECIAL NOTICE TO J-1 AND J-2 VISA HOLDERS
The United States Information Agency (USIA) announced in late December that the 30-day "grace period" for J-1 and J-2
visa holders (which permits Js to stay in the U.S. for 30 days beyond the ending date of their IAP-66 form) is valid only if the
exchange visitor intends to leave the U.S. by the end of the 30 days. If a J-1 needs an extension of stay or wishes to transfer
to another J-1 program, the extension or transfer must be completed before the expiration date on the current IAP-66. A J-1
who wishes to extend or transfer during the 30 day "grace period" will be considered by USIA to have violated "program
status"and will first have to apply to USIA for reinstatement to program status -- an application which USIA indicates will
likely be denied.
Return to Home