How Do You Get a No Objection Statement for a J-1 Waiver?
The applicant generally requests the No Objection Statement from the consular section of the home country's embassy in Washington, D.C., after obtaining a Department of State waiver case number.
First obtain the DOS waiver case number
DOS recommends requesting the No Objection Statement after the applicant completes the online DS-3035 and receives the waiver case number.
Contact the embassy's consular section
DOS directs applicants to contact the consular section of the relevant home-country embassy in Washington, D.C. Each foreign government may have its own internal documentation and approval process before it agrees to issue the statement.
Give the government the correct DOS case information
The foreign government needs sufficient identifying information to connect its statement with the correct waiver case. Applicants should follow the embassy's own document checklist carefully.
The embassy sends the statement directly
If the government approves the request, its designated embassy official sends the No Objection Statement directly to the Waiver Review Division. The applicant does not forward the statement personally.
How to Request a No Objection Statement
1. Complete the online DS-3035
Complete the Department of State online waiver application first so you receive the J-1 waiver case number.
2. Contact the home-country embassy
After receiving the case number, contact the consular section of the relevant home-country embassy in Washington, D.C. Ask for its current requirements for issuing a No Objection Statement.
3. Follow the foreign government process
Each foreign government may require its own forms, supporting records, fees, clearances, or approvals before it agrees to issue the statement. Follow that government's instructions carefully.
4. Provide the waiver case information
Give the foreign government the correct waiver case number and identifying information so the statement can be associated with the correct Department of State case.
5. The government sends the statement
If the request is approved, the designated government official sends the No Objection Statement directly through the channel required by DOS. The applicant does not personally submit the statement to the Waiver Review Division.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I ask my embassy for the statement?
DOS recommends requesting it after you receive your waiver case number from the online DS-3035.
Which embassy office should I contact?
DOS directs applicants to the consular section of the home country's embassy in Washington, D.C.
Does every country use the same internal procedure?
No. The U.S. procedure is standardized, but each foreign government may impose its own requirements before issuing the statement.
Need Help With a J-1 Waiver?
The Messersmith Law Firm represents J-1 exchange visitors, physicians, researchers, professionals, and families in complex INA §212(e) matters.
Contact Us