According to the Department of State (DOS), the J-1 Exchange Visitor Program  "... fosters global understanding through educational and cultural exchanges.  All exchange visitors are expected to return to their home country upon completion of their program in order to share their exchange experiences."

This underlying purpose of the J-1 Exchange Program means that there are complex rules limiting when people may pursue J-1 visa sponsorship. This is, in essence, to ensure that program participants have little choice but to return to their home countries. 

The various rules (also called 'bars' because they bar individuals from certain opportunities) are listed below. The reasons a bar might be triggered, and the way these rules interact with other rules, are complex. Please schedule time to talk with an International Scholar Services counselor if you have questions. 

212(e) Home Residence

  • Bar is 2 years in duration
  • Blocks eligibility for H-1B, L-1, K-1 or permanent residence visa status
  • Might be waived

24-Month Bar to Repeat Participation

  • Bar is 2 years in duration
  • Blocks eligibility for J-1 Research Scholar status and, in limited circumstances, J-1 Short-Term Scholar status
  • Waiver or other avoidance is not permitted

12-Month Bar to Repeat Participation

  • Bar is 1 year in duration
  • Blocks eligibility for J-1 Research Scholar status 
  • Waiver or other avoidance is not permitted