Office of International Education

Maintenance of Legal Status

In short, for a J-1 scholar to maintain legal status, s/he must continually engage in the program noted on the DS-2019. Further, a J-1 scholar or professor may not accept any U.S. employment which is not specifically listed one the DS-2019 or authorized in advance by OIE. Should any details change - the department sponsor or funding source, for example - then the J-1 scholar should consult with a Foreign Scholar Advisor in OIE.

Grace period.

J-1 scholars (and their dependants in J-2 status) are granted a 30-day grace period at the end of the program. This period is meant for personal business or pleasure, not for continued employment. During this period, the J scholar may remain in the US. By the end of the 30 day grace period, the scholar is expected to:

  • Leave the US,
  • Extend or transfer the J program sponsorship, or
  • Apply to the INS for a change of legal non-immigrant status.

Health insurance requirement.

This topic is covered in more details under "conditions and limitations" on this web site. It is unique among non-immigrant categories that J-1 scholars and their dependants must be covered by health insurance that meets the minimum requirements stipulated by U.S. federal law. Failure to maintain adequate health insurance results in the loss of legal J-1 status.

Last Updated On: September 5th, 2006