What Form Should an Official J-1 No Objection Statement Take?
State Department guidance describes the No Objection Statement as an official diplomatic note from the exchange visitor's home government stating that it has no objection to nonfulfillment of the two-year requirement or the possibility of U.S. residence.
It is a government diplomatic communication
The Foreign Affairs Manual describes the No Objection Statement as a diplomatic note issued on behalf of the exchange visitor by the applicable home government.
The government must address the two-year requirement
The note states that the government does not object to the exchange visitor not returning for two years to fulfill INA §212(e).
It must also address possible U.S. residence
The statement must indicate that the government does not object to the possibility of the exchange visitor remaining in the United States and becoming a resident.
The official transmission channel matters
The note must be sent through the authorized embassy, diplomatic mission, or designated-ministry procedure rather than simply handed to the applicant for submission.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a No Objection Statement just a personal support letter?
No. It is an official government diplomatic communication.
Must it address possible U.S. permanent residence?
Yes.
Can the applicant substitute an unofficial copy?
No.
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