Which Date Matters if You Changed to J Status Inside the United States?
INA §212(e) expressly recognizes both admission in J status and acquisition of J status after admission. Current DOS Skills List guidance likewise refers to the date the person was admitted in J status or obtained J status.
Some exchange visitors enter directly in J status
For those applicants, the relevant event is admission to the United States in J classification.
Others acquire J status after admission
INA §212(e) expressly covers a person who acquires J status after entering the United States in another classification.
Current DOS guidance uses both concepts
The 2024 Skills List page refers to exchange visitors admitted in J status or obtaining J status on or after the list's effective date.
This can matter in cases spanning a list change
If the applicant entered the United States in another status and later changed to J, the actual J-status acquisition date should be identified rather than simply using the earlier physical entry date.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does 212(e) cover a change of status to J?
Yes.
Is physical entry date always the same as the date J status was obtained?
No.
Does DOS's current Skills List guidance recognize both admission and obtaining J status?
Yes.
Need Help With a J-1 Waiver?
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