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Maintaining J-1 Status: What Every Exchange Visitor Must Know

Posted on by ustrainee

Maintaining valid J-1 status is the responsibility of every exchange visitor participating in a U.S. Department of State–designated program.
Failure to follow J-1 regulations may result in loss of status, program termination, or future visa difficulties.

This article outlines the core requirements for maintaining J-1 status, based strictly on U.S. Department of State regulations (22 CFR Part 62) and BridgeUSA guidance.

What Does “Maintaining J-1 Status” Mean?

Maintaining J-1 status means that the exchange visitor is:

  • Participating only in the activities authorized on the DS-2019

  • Following all program rules and timelines

  • Remaining under the supervision of the designated sponsor

  • Keeping all information in SEVIS accurate and up to date

J-1 status is not determined by the visa sticker alone. It is governed by program compliance after entry into the United States.

1. Maintain a Valid DS-2019

The DS-2019 defines the authorized program dates, category, and activities.

Participants must ensure that:

  • The DS-2019 has not expired

  • The program dates match actual participation

  • Any extension or change is approved before the end date

Only the program sponsor may issue, extend, or replace a DS-2019.

2. Engage Only in Approved Program Activities

Exchange visitors may participate only in activities described in their approved program documents (including the DS-7002 for Trainees and Interns).

Not allowed:

  • Unauthorized employment

  • Activities outside the approved training field

  • Changing host companies or training sites without sponsor approval

All changes must be reviewed and approved by the sponsor in advance.

3. Maintain Full-Time Participation

J-1 Trainees and Interns must participate in their programs on a full-time basis, defined by regulation as at least 32 hours per week.

Reduced hours, unpaid leave, or extended absences must be approved by the sponsor and properly documented.

4. Keep SEVIS Information Accurate

Participants must notify their sponsor promptly of:

  • U.S. address changes

  • Phone or email changes

  • Changes to training location or supervisor

  • Early completion or withdrawal

Sponsors are required to report these updates in SEVIS.

Failure to keep SEVIS information accurate may result in termination of J-1 status.

5. Maintain Required Health Insurance

All J-1 exchange visitors must maintain health insurance coverage that meets U.S. Department of State minimum requirements for the entire program duration.

This requirement applies to:

  • The participant

  • Any accompanying J-2 dependents

Lack of compliant insurance is grounds for program termination.

6. Comply With Sponsor Monitoring Requirements

Sponsors are required to conduct regular monitoring, which may include:

  • Periodic check-ins

  • Evaluations or progress reports

  • Site visits (in certain cases)

Participants must respond to sponsor communications and cooperate fully with monitoring activities.

7. Program Completion and Grace Period

Upon successful completion of the J-1 program, participants enter a 30-day grace period.

During this time, participants may:

  • Prepare for departure

  • Travel within the United States

They may not:

  • Work

  • Begin a new program

  • Re-enter the U.S. on the same DS-2019

Consequences of Violating J-1 Status

Violations may lead to:

  • SEVIS termination

  • Loss of lawful status

  • Ineligibility for future U.S. visas

  • Immediate departure requirements

Once terminated, status cannot be restored automatically and must be addressed through the sponsor and, in some cases, U.S. government authorities.

Summary

Maintaining J-1 status requires ongoing compliance with program rules, accurate documentation, and active communication with the sponsor.
The J-1 Exchange Visitor Program is governed by federal regulations designed to protect both participants and host organizations.

Understanding and following these requirements ensures a successful, compliant, and positive exchange experience.

Official References

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