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

Can You Send the DS-3035 Fee Separately From the Application?

No. DOS expressly requires the DS-3035 barcode application and fee payment to be submitted together. If one is sent without the other, DOS states that the separated item will be returned and the application will not be processed.

Reviewed by Peter Messersmith · 2026-09-14

DOS calls this an important filing rule

The Step 2 instructions specifically warn applicants to submit the barcode application and fee payment together.

Sending only the fee does not start processing

The DOS fee page states that a payment submitted without the waiver application will be returned.

Sending only the application also causes a problem

The Step 2 notice applies in either direction: one required item separated from the other prevents normal processing.

Assemble Step 2 as one package

A filing check should confirm the barcode DS-3035, complete program forms, and payment are all present before the package is sent.

Legal Authorities and Sources

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I mail the DOS fee later?

No. DOS instructs applicants to submit the fee with the application.

What happens if the payment is sent alone?

DOS says it will be returned and the waiver application will not be processed on that basis.

Should Step 2 be assembled as one filing?

Yes.

Need Help With a J-1 Waiver?

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