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The Messersmith Law Firm, P.A. J-1 Waivers and INA §212(e)
J-1 Waiver Problems

Do You Keep the Same Waiver Case Number When You Reapply?

Yes. DOS states that the same waiver case number should be used for all future waiver recommendation applications or advisory opinion requests.

Reviewed by Peter Messersmith · 2026-09-14

The case number follows the applicant

DOS issues the waiver case number after completion of the online DS-3035.

Reuse the number for future waiver applications

The current DOS FAQ expressly instructs applicants to use the same case number for future waiver recommendation applications.

The same rule applies to later advisory opinions

DOS also says the same number should be used for future advisory opinion requests.

Keep the number with the permanent immigration file

Because the number may be used again later, the applicant should preserve it with the DS-3035, DS-2019 forms, recommendation records, and final USCIS notices.

Legal Authorities and Sources

  1. U.S. Department of State — J-1 Waiver Frequently Asked Questions
  2. U.S. Department of State — How to Apply for a J-1 Waiver
  3. U.S. Department of State — J Visa Waiver Online

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I get a brand-new case number every time I reapply?

No. DOS says to use the same case number.

Does the same number apply to a future Advisory Opinion?

Yes.

Where was the original number created?

It is issued when the online DS-3035 is completed.

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