Does a DOS Request for Additional Information Delay a J-1 Waiver?
A Department of State request for additional information interrupts the ordinary waiver review because the Waiver Review Division needs more evidence or clarification before it can continue. The applicant should respond exactly as instructed and should not assume the original processing estimate continues unchanged while additional material is under review.
DOS sends additional-information requests by email
Current DOS instructions state that the Waiver Review Division will contact the applicant by email when it needs more information or documents.
That makes the email address listed in the DS-3035 record important throughout the pending case.
Respond from the email address of record
DOS instructs applicants to email requested information as PDF documents from the email address of record on the DS-3035.
The response should follow the subject-line and case-identification instructions provided by DOS so the material can be matched to the correct waiver case.
Answer the actual request rather than resubmitting the whole case
The response should identify each item DOS requested and supply the relevant evidence or explanation clearly.
Sending a large duplicate filing without addressing the specific request can make review more difficult and does not substitute for a focused response.
Additional review can extend the timeline
DOS states that waiver applications requiring additional administrative processing may take additional time before a recommendation is sent to USCIS.
A request for more information is therefore a reason to expect further review rather than to calculate the case solely from the original filing date.
Keep contact information current
If the applicant's address, telephone number, or email changes, DOS instructs the applicant to update the information through J Visa Waiver Online.
An outdated email address can cause the applicant to miss a request that must be answered before the case moves forward.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does DOS send a request for additional information?
DOS says the Waiver Review Division contacts the applicant by email.
How should the response be sent?
DOS instructs applicants to send the requested information as PDF documents from the email address of record.
Does the original processing estimate necessarily continue unchanged?
No. Additional review or administrative processing can extend the timeline.
What if my email address changed?
Update the contact information through J Visa Waiver Online.
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