Program Start & End Dates

Permission to stay in the US is indicated on the I-94 departure record, which the visitor prints after they enter the US by going to  https://i94.cbp.dhs.gov/I94/#/home. It indicates the date and port of entry to the US, the immigration classification (J1) and the date until which the Exchange Visitor is allowed to remain in the US.

For most J-1 Exchange Visitors, the term “D/S” (Duration of Status) is recorded on the I-94 and DS-2019.  This means the Exchange Visitor may continue in program activities until the end date on the DS-2019.  No official program activities or work can take place after this program end date; however, Exchange Visitors are given a grace period of 30 days after the program end date to depart the USA.

The program end date on the DS-2019 is very important!  If an EV wishes to remain in the US beyond this date, to extend the current program or transfer to another program, it must be done before the program end date.  Unit hosts should consult with the IP office to request program extensions.

Overstaying one’s status (i.e. program end date + 30-day grace period) is a SERIOUS immigration violation with long-term consequences.