What If DOS Shows a Recommendation but You Did Not Receive the Email?
DOS states that it will notify the applicant by email when the Waiver Review Division forwards its recommendation to USCIS. If that email is not received, use the waiver status record and current contact information to determine whether the case is still at DOS or has already moved to USCIS.
Check the DOS waiver status first
The absence of an email does not by itself establish that DOS has not acted. Review J Visa Waiver Online using the waiver case number to determine the current recommendation-stage status.
The online case record is more useful than relying only on the applicant's inbox.
Confirm the email address on the waiver record
DOS instructs applicants to keep their email and other contact information current through J Visa Waiver Online.
If the address was entered incorrectly or later changed, a DOS notification can be missed even though the case moved forward.
A DOS recommendation is not final waiver approval
A favorable DOS recommendation is forwarded to USCIS. It does not itself waive the two-year requirement.
USCIS remains the final waiver authority.
Once DOS sends the recommendation, use USCIS for status
DOS states that after its recommendation is sent to USCIS, DOS no longer has jurisdiction over the final waiver case.
At that point the applicant should use the USCIS stage and available USCIS status tools rather than waiting for further substantive action from DOS.
Preserve the DOS case information
Keep the DOS waiver case number, copies of the application, and any status information showing that the recommendation stage was completed.
These records help distinguish a missing email notification from a case that is actually still pending at DOS.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does DOS normally email when it sends the recommendation to USCIS?
Yes. Current DOS instructions state that the Waiver Review Division will notify the applicant by email.
Is the DOS email the final waiver approval?
No. USCIS makes the final decision.
What should I check if I did not receive the email?
Check J Visa Waiver Online and verify that DOS has the correct email address.
Who handles the case after DOS sends its recommendation?
USCIS.
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