Finishing a J-1 Exchange Program

Grace Period

Following completion of the program, the exchange visitor is no longer in J-visa status. Exchange visitors are permitted by law to remain in the U.S. for a 30-day grace period after the expiration date on the DS-2019, but are not permitted to continue their UW research or teaching activity, with or without salary, during this period. Those who travel outside the country during this time will not be permitted to re-enter the U.S. in J-1 or J-2 status.

Email acadvisa@uw.edu if the exchange visitor finishes the program and departs the U.S. before the end date listed on the DS-2019.

Transferring Out of the UW

When transferring out of the University of Washington, the exchange visitor must:

• Complete a Transfer Verification Form and submit it to ISO.
• Maintain his or her appointment at UW until the effective date of transfer.
• Report to the international office at the new university to collect the DS-2019 within 30 days after the effective date of transfer.

Starting at a New Institution

The start date at the new institution must be the day immediately following the last day at the prior institution. Gaps between program sponsorship (e.g., for a “vacation”) are not allowed.

Exiting and Re-Entering the U.S. to Begin a New Program

If an exchange visitor leaves the U.S. then seeks to return under the sponsorship of a new exchange visitor program, this would be viewed as a “new entry,” not a “transfer,” and therefore all the rules and procedures for beginning a new program would apply, including possible bars on repeat participation in J-1 status.