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The Messersmith Law Firm, P.A. J-1 Waivers and INA §212(e)
J-1 Waiver Process

Is Form DS-3035 Filed Entirely Online?

Form DS-3035 is completed through the Department of State online system, but completing the online form does not finish the waiver filing. After the form generates the waiver case number and barcode, the applicant must print the completed DS-3035 and mail the required Step 2 package to the correct Department of State address.

Reviewed by Peter Messersmith · 2026-09-15

Complete DS-3035 through the online system

DOS currently requires applicants to use the online Form DS-3035. Using another version can cause the waiver application to be returned.

The online system generates the waiver case number, barcode, and filing instructions that identify the application.

Mail the three core Step 2 items

The Step 2 package includes the printed DS-3035 with barcode, legible copies of every DS-2019 or IAP-66 ever issued to the applicant, and the required processing fee.

The application and fee must be submitted together. DOS states that if one is submitted without the other, the item will be returned and the application will not be processed.

Use the address that matches the mailing method

DOS publishes separate addresses for U.S. Postal Service delivery and courier delivery. The applicant should use the address corresponding to the actual delivery method.

DOS states that an application sent to the incorrect address will not be processed and will be returned.

Third-party documents are a separate step

The Step 2 mailing package should not be confused with the supporting documents required in Step 3. Depending on the waiver basis, a home government, federal agency, USCIS, or state health department may have to submit additional documents directly.

The case is not complete for processing-time purposes until DOS receives the required applicant materials and any required third-party documents.

Legal Authorities and Sources

  1. U.S. Department of State — How to Apply for a J-1 Waiver
  2. U.S. Department of State — J-1 Waiver Processing Fee
  3. U.S. Department of State — J-1 Waiver Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Is DS-3035 filed entirely online?

No. The form is completed online, but the printed application with barcode must be mailed as part of the Step 2 package.

What goes in the Step 2 package?

The printed DS-3035 with barcode, legible copies of all DS-2019 or IAP-66 forms, and the processing fee.

Can I mail the fee separately?

DOS says the application and fee must be submitted together.

Are third-party supporting documents included in the same mailing?

Not necessarily. Step 3 documents may have to come directly from the responsible government or agency.

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