What is Form DS-2019?
Form DS-2019, also known as the “Certificate of Eligibility for Exchange Visitor (J-1) Status,” is a document issued by the United States Department of State. It’s used in the context of the J-1 Exchange Visitor Program, which is a non-immigrant visa category that allows foreign nationals to come to the United States for the purpose of cultural exchange, academic study, research, training, or other approved activities.
The Form DS-2019 is issued by the program sponsors, which can include educational institutions, research organizations, government agencies, and private sector entities that have been approved by the U.S. Department of State to sponsor exchange visitors. The form contains information about the exchange program, the participant’s program details, and the financial arrangements for their stay in the U.S.
To obtain a J-1 visa, individuals need to present the Form DS-2019 to a U.S. embassy or consulate in their home country, along with other required documents. The J-1 visa allows them to enter the United States for the duration of their exchange program. It’s important to note that J-1 visa holders are subject to a two-year home-country physical presence requirement, which means they must return to their home country for two years before being eligible to apply for certain U.S. immigration benefits, like permanent residency or H-1B work visas.
Overall, Form DS-2019 is a crucial document for individuals participating in J-1 exchange programs as it signifies their eligibility and sponsorship for the program.
Who issues Form DS-2019?
Form DS-2019 is issued by designated program sponsors that have been approved by the U.S. Department of State to administer the J-1 Exchange Visitor Program. These sponsors can include a wide range of organizations, such as educational institutions, research organizations, government agencies, and private sector entities. The program sponsors play a crucial role in facilitating the exchange programs and ensuring that participants meet the necessary requirements.
These sponsors are responsible for evaluating the eligibility of potential exchange visitors, providing them with necessary documentation, and overseeing their participation in the program. They also monitor the participants’ progress, ensure compliance with program regulations, and report relevant information to the U.S. Department of State.
When an individual is accepted into a J-1 exchange program, the designated program sponsor issues the Form DS-2019 to the participant. This form contains important information about the program, the participant’s details, and the financial aspects of their stay in the United States. It is used by the participant to apply for a J-1 visa at a U.S. embassy or consulate in their home country before traveling to the United States.
How the DS-2019 is used outside the U.S.
The Form DS-2019 is a critical document for individuals participating in the J-1 Exchange Visitor Program who intend to travel to the United States. It serves as the basis for obtaining a J-1 visa, which is required for entry into the U.S. for the purpose of participating in the exchange program. Here’s how the DS-2019 is typically used outside the U.S.:
- Obtaining a J-1 Visa: Before traveling to the United States, participants in a J-1 exchange program need to apply for a J-1 visa at a U.S. embassy or consulate in their home country. The DS-2019, along with other required documents such as a valid passport, visa application forms, and a visa application fee, is submitted as part of the visa application process. The DS-2019 provides essential information about the exchange program, the participant’s details, and the sponsor organization. The embassy or consulate reviews the application and, if approved, issues the J-1 visa stamp on the participant’s passport.
- Traveling to the U.S.: Once the J-1 visa has been obtained, the participant can travel to the United States. The DS-2019 should be presented to U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officials at the port of entry along with the visa and passport. The CBP officer will review the documents and determine the participant’s eligibility for entry into the U.S.
- Verification and Admission: At the port of entry, the CBP officer reviews the DS-2019 and other documents to verify the participant’s eligibility and purpose of travel. If everything is in order, the participant is admitted into the U.S. in J-1 status, which corresponds to their approved exchange program.
- Program Participation: Throughout the participant’s stay in the United States, the DS-2019 remains an important document. It contains key information about the exchange program, the sponsor organization, and the participant’s program details. Participants should keep their DS-2019 in a safe place and inform their sponsor of any changes in their program, address, or other relevant information.
- Extensions and Changes: If a participant’s exchange program needs to be extended or if there are changes to the program, the sponsor may need to update or issue a new DS-2019 with the revised details. This new DS-2019 would also be used in interactions with U.S. immigration authorities and for travel purposes.
In summary, the DS-2019 is used as a central document for obtaining a J-1 visa, entering the United States, and participating in the exchange program. It’s a vital component of the process for individuals engaged in educational, cultural, research, and other approved activities as part of the J-1 Exchange Visitor Program.
How the DS-2019 is used inside the U.S.
Once an individual with a J-1 visa enters the United States, the Form DS-2019 continues to be an important document used for various purposes within the country. Here’s how the DS-2019 is typically used inside the U.S.:
- Program Verification: The DS-2019 serves as a verification of the participant’s eligibility to engage in the specific J-1 exchange program for which they were granted the visa. It contains important details about the program’s duration, objectives, sponsor information, and any specific requirements or restrictions associated with the program.
- Immigration Compliance: J-1 visa holders are required to maintain their status and comply with the terms and conditions of their exchange program. The DS-2019 outlines these conditions, including the participant’s expected program start and end dates, any work or training restrictions, and other relevant information. It’s important for participants to adhere to these conditions to avoid potential immigration issues.
- Interaction with Sponsors: Participants may need to interact with their designated program sponsors while in the U.S. For example, if there are changes to the program’s details, such as an extension of the program duration or a change of program category, the sponsor may need to issue an updated DS-2019 reflecting these changes.
- Travel Within the U.S.: While not an official identification document, the DS-2019 can be useful as a secondary form of identification when traveling within the United States. It’s recommended to keep a copy of the DS-2019 in a safe place and carry it with you when needed, along with other identification documents.
- Reentry to the U.S.: If a J-1 visa holder travels outside the U.S. during their program, they generally need the DS-2019 to reenter the country. Upon reentry, the CBP officer at the port of entry may request to see the DS-2019 along with the visa and passport to verify the participant’s status and eligibility for reentry.
- Extensions and Changes: If a participant’s exchange program is extended or modified while they are already in the U.S., the sponsor may issue an updated DS-2019 to reflect these changes. The participant would use the new DS-2019 for any future interactions with immigration authorities and sponsors.
- Departure and Departure Confirmation: When the exchange program concludes, the participant is required to depart the United States within a specific timeframe indicated on the DS-2019. Additionally, sponsors often require participants to complete a departure confirmation process to inform them of their departure plans and to ensure compliance with program requirements.
In summary, the DS-2019 continues to play a role in ensuring the participant’s compliance with the terms of their J-1 exchange program while they are inside the United States. It helps facilitate communication between the participant and the program sponsor, and it serves as a reference for program details and conditions during the participant’s stay.
Transfer of Programs (DS-2019)
Transferring a J-1 exchange program from one program sponsor to another is known as a “Transfer of Programs” or a “Change of Program Sponsor.” This process allows J-1 visa holders to continue their exchange activities under a different sponsor while remaining in the United States. This can occur for various reasons, such as changing educational institutions or moving to a new host organization.
Here’s how the process of transferring programs (DS-2019) typically works:
- Eligibility: To be eligible for a program transfer, the J-1 visa holder must be in valid J-1 status and compliant with their current program’s requirements. The new sponsor must also agree to accept the participant into their program and issue a new DS-2019.
- Initiating the Transfer: The participant initiates the transfer process by contacting their current program sponsor and expressing their intention to transfer to a new sponsor. The new sponsor should provide guidance on their transfer process, required documentation, and any deadlines.
- Acceptance by New Sponsor: The new sponsor evaluates the participant’s eligibility and the compatibility of their program with the new sponsor’s objectives. If approved, the new sponsor agrees to take over the sponsorship and issues a new Form DS-2019 with the updated program details.
- Transfer Request and Documentation: The participant requests a transfer of programs from their current sponsor. This request may involve submitting certain documents to both the current and new sponsors, such as a transfer request letter, a letter of acceptance from the new sponsor, and an updated training or study plan.
- Issuance of New DS-2019: Once the new sponsor approves the transfer, they issue a new DS-2019 reflecting the new program details, including the new sponsor’s information, program start and end dates, and any other relevant information. The participant will need this new DS-2019 to continue their stay in the U.S.
- SEVIS Record Transfer: The current sponsor updates the participant’s SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System) record to indicate the transfer of sponsorship. The new sponsor then initiates the transfer of the participant’s SEVIS record to their institution.
- Validation and Continuing the Program: The J-1 visa holder validates their new DS-2019 by signing it and follows any instructions provided by the new sponsor. They should maintain communication with both the old and new sponsors to ensure a smooth transition.
- Reporting to USCIS: Both the current and new sponsors must report the transfer to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) within 30 days of the transfer.
It’s important to note that the transfer process should be completed before the current DS-2019 expires to avoid any potential immigration issues. J-1 visa holders should carefully follow the instructions provided by both their current and new sponsors to ensure a successful transfer of programs.
Traveling with the DS-2019
Traveling with the Form DS-2019 (Certificate of Eligibility for Exchange Visitor Status) is an important aspect of maintaining your J-1 visa status while participating in an exchange program in the United States. Here are some key points to keep in mind when traveling with your DS-2019:
- Traveling Abroad and Reentry to the U.S.: Whenever you plan to travel outside of the United States, you should carry your DS-2019 with you. It’s a necessary document for reentry to the U.S. Make sure your DS-2019 is signed by an appropriate authority before you travel. The signature is usually valid for one year, although it’s a good practice to have a recent signature to avoid any potential issues.
- Valid Visa and Passport: Ensure that your J-1 visa stamp in your passport is still valid for reentry. If your visa has expired while you’re outside the U.S., you will need to apply for a new visa before returning. Additionally, your passport should be valid for at least six months into the future from your intended date of return to the U.S.
- SEVIS Fee Payment: If you’re traveling outside the U.S. and have not yet paid the SEVIS I-901 fee, make sure you have proof of payment (the receipt) with you. You might be asked to show this when reentering the U.S.
- Travel Signature: Before you leave the U.S., you should obtain a travel signature on your DS-2019 from your program sponsor’s Responsible Officer (RO) or Alternate Responsible Officer (ARO). This signature confirms that you are in good standing and eligible to return to the U.S. You can usually find the RO or ARO at your program sponsor’s office.
- Check Travel Restrictions: Be aware of any travel restrictions or requirements related to your specific exchange program. Some J-1 programs have specific travel rules or recommendations that you should follow.
- Keep Copies: Make copies of your DS-2019, passport, visa, and any other important documents. Keep these copies in a separate location from the originals. In case your documents are lost or stolen, having copies will be helpful for replacement purposes.
- Check with U.S. Embassy/Consulate: Depending on your home country and the U.S. embassy or consulate policies, you might need to go through a visa application process if your visa has expired or if you’re a national of a country that requires a visa to enter the U.S.
- Plan Ahead: Traveling internationally can involve unforeseen delays or complications. Plan your travels with enough buffer time to ensure you don’t miss important program dates or commitments.
- Stay Informed: Keep yourself updated with any changes in U.S. immigration policies or travel restrictions, especially considering any changes that might have occurred since my last knowledge update in September 2021.
Always consult with your program sponsor’s Responsible Officer (RO) or Alternate Responsible Officer (ARO) for specific guidance on traveling with your DS-2019 and maintaining your J-1 visa status during your exchange program.
The DS-2019 End Date
The end date on your Form DS-2019 (Certificate of Eligibility for Exchange Visitor Status) is a crucial piece of information that indicates the expected completion date of your J-1 exchange program. It’s a date set by your program sponsor and is based on the duration and objectives of your specific program. Here’s what you need to know about the DS-2019 end date:
- Program Completion: The end date on your DS-2019 signifies the date on which your official J-1 exchange program is expected to conclude. This could be the end of your academic program, research project, training, or other approved activities.
- Program Extension: If you need more time to complete your program, you should discuss the possibility of an extension with your program sponsor well before your current DS-2019 end date. Program extensions usually require approval from your sponsor, and they will issue a new DS-2019 reflecting the updated end date.
- Maintaining Status: It’s important to complete your program and adhere to the DS-2019 end date to maintain your legal J-1 status in the U.S. Failing to complete your program by the specified end date could result in status violations and affect your ability to participate in future U.S. immigration programs.
- Grace Period: The J-1 visa has a grace period that allows you to remain in the U.S. for up to 30 days after the DS-2019 end date. During this time, you can finalize your departure from the U.S., make travel arrangements, and wrap up any loose ends related to your program.
- Departure Confirmation: Some program sponsors require participants to complete a departure confirmation process before leaving the U.S. This involves notifying your sponsor of your departure plans and potentially providing information about your future plans or destinations.
- Options After Program Completion: After completing your J-1 program, you might have various options depending on your goals. These could include returning to your home country, pursuing further education, participating in another exchange program, or exploring employment opportunities under certain circumstances.
- Two-Year Home Residency Requirement: It’s important to note that some J-1 exchange program participants are subject to a two-year home residency requirement. If you are subject to this requirement, you may need to return to your home country for a minimum of two years before being eligible for certain U.S. immigration benefits, such as certain work visas or permanent residency.
Always communicate with your program sponsor’s Responsible Officer (RO) or Alternate Responsible Officer (ARO) regarding any questions or concerns related to your DS-2019 end date, program extensions, and post-program plans. Staying informed and maintaining open communication will help ensure a smooth transition and compliance with U.S. immigration regulations.
The 30-day Grace Period
The 30-day grace period is an important concept in the context of certain non-immigrant visa categories, including the J-1 visa for exchange visitors in the United States. This grace period allows individuals in specific visa statuses to remain in the U.S. for a limited period of time after the official end date of their authorized stay. Here’s what you need to know about the 30-day grace period for J-1 visa holders:
- Purpose of the Grace Period: The 30-day grace period is designed to give J-1 visa holders a short window of time to wrap up their affairs, finalize travel plans, and prepare for departure from the United States after completing their J-1 exchange program.
- Duration: During this grace period, J-1 visa holders are allowed to remain in the U.S. for up to 30 days beyond the official end date of their DS-2019, which signifies the completion of their exchange program. This allows them to handle practical matters and make a smooth transition back to their home country.
- Authorized Activities: While in the grace period, J-1 visa holders are not allowed to work or engage in any J-1 program activities. They are considered to be in a “period of stay authorized by the Attorney General,” which means they have some flexibility to remain in the U.S. but are not authorized to continue participating in their J-1 program.
- Travel and Reentry: J-1 visa holders can travel within the U.S. during the grace period, but they should be cautious about reentering the U.S. after the grace period has expired. Reentering during the grace period might be seen as an attempt to continue the J-1 program, which could lead to complications.
- Maintaining Legal Status: It’s important to emphasize that the grace period is intended for preparing to leave the U.S., not for extending the J-1 program. Staying beyond the grace period without proper authorization can result in a violation of immigration status, potential penalties, and difficulties with future U.S. visa applications.
- SEVIS Record Status: During the grace period, the participant’s SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System) record remains active. This means that any updates or changes to the participant’s status should still be reported to the program sponsor during this time.
- Insurance Coverage: Some program sponsors require participants to maintain valid health insurance coverage during the grace period to ensure they are protected while still in the U.S.
- Two-Year Home Residency Requirement: If you are subject to the two-year home residency requirement, the grace period does not affect this requirement. You would still need to fulfill the requirement before being eligible for certain U.S. immigration benefits.
As the U.S. immigration policies and regulations can change, it’s always recommended to verify the specifics of the grace period with your program sponsor’s Responsible Officer (RO) or Alternate Responsible Officer (ARO). They can provide you with the most up-to-date information and guidance tailored to your individual situation.
Related Links:
Form DS-160, Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application
J-1 Visa, Exchange Visitor Visa
