What Should You Do If a J-1 Waiver Has Been Pending Longer Than 10 Weeks?
A case beyond the published six-to-ten-week DOS estimate should first be checked for completeness, missing third-party documents, a request for additional information, or additional administrative processing.
Confirm when the case actually became complete
The six-to-ten-week estimate starts when WRD receives the complete package, not when the applicant first generates the case number or mails one part of the filing.
Check the online status for missing items
The status system reports whether the Step 2 materials and required supporting documents have been received.
Account for additional administrative processing
DOS expressly states that cases requiring additional administrative processing can take longer.
Use the DOS inquiry channel after reviewing the status
For pending waiver questions not resolved by the published information or status system, DOS directs applicants to its waiver contact resources and Navigator.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does more than ten weeks automatically mean something is wrong?
No.
What should I check first?
Whether the complete package and all required supporting documents were actually received.
Can additional administrative processing exceed the estimate?
Yes.
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.
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