Repeating/Returning on a J1 Program

There are some rules and regulations in relation to repeating and returning on a J1 Program.

Ending one program early to begin another program is not permitted.

Per U.S. Department of State guidelines for second programs, you may be required to wait for a set period before returning to the U.S. for a second internship or training program. Please refer to the situations and minimum waiting periods below:

• You completed the Grad Visa program as an intern and would like to return as an intern with the same host organisation - 90 days if returning to the same host organisation.

• You completed the Grad Visa program as an intern and would like to return as an intern with a different host organisation. - 90 days if returning to a different host organisation.

• You completed the Grad Visa program and would like to return as a trainee. - 2 years (as required by U.S. Department of State).

• You completed a program as a trainee and wish to do another trainee program. - 2 years (as required by U.S. Department of State).

• You completed a program as a trainee and would like to return as an intern. - 90 days.

Please note: The above minimum waiting periods are program requirements and are superseded by section 212(e) of the U.S. Immigration and Nationality Act, also known as the two-year home country physical presence requirement. Please consult your DS-2019 to see if you are subject to this requirement. Also note that interns and trainees may not shorten their current programs to become eligible for a second program.

Two-year rule vs Two Year Home Residency requirement.

There are two types of two year rule – 

The first is on your passport visa sticker – the home residency requirement and will most likely state ‘NOT SUBJECT TO THE 2 YEAR RULE’, so you will not be subject to this. This is determined by the US Embassy when issuing your visa.

The second is the 2 year Hiatus rule between Internship (including Grad) and Career training Visas (Trainee program) or Trainee to Trainee. You will only be eligible for a Professional Trainee Visa 2 years after your Grad or Intern visa ends.