12 Month Bar

Individuals who participated in a J Exchange Visitor program may be subject to a 12-month bar upon completion of their Exchange Visitor program.  The 12-month bar prohibits an individual from obtaining J-1 status in the Research Scholar or Professor categories if the individual was physically present in any J status (including J-2 status)* for more than 6 months in the 12-month period immediately preceding the new J program start date.  

*Presence in J status as a Short-term Scholar does not trigger the 12-month bar.  

Am I Subject to the 12-Month Bar?

Any J Exchange Visitor [in any category *except* the J-1 Short Term Scholar category] and their J-2 dependents who participated in a J-1 program longer than 6 months is subject to the 12-month bar.  The program end date can be found in section 3 of the DS-2019. The J category can be found in section 4.

Your Future Options

If you are subject to the 12-month bar, you will not be able return to the U.S. as a J-1 scholar in the Research Scholar or Professor category for a 12-month period after the end of your prior J status. However, you may be able to return in a different J category or with a different type of visa. You may also consider extending your current J-1 status for a longer period, if possible. It is important that you consult with an advisor in the OIS or other sponsoring institution if you have plans to return to the U.S. in the future for research or teaching.

24-Month Bar on Repeat Participation

The 24-month bar is different than the 12-month bar.  The 24-month bar applies to individuals in the J Research Scholar or Professor categories seeking repeat participation in those categories.  For more information, see 24-Month Bar.

Two Year Home Residency Requirement

The two-year home residency requirement is different and separate from the 12-month bar. For more information, see 2 Year Home Residency Requirement.