Does a No Objection Statement Guarantee Approval of a J-1 Waiver?
No. State Department guidance expressly warns that a foreign government's No Objection Statement only begins consideration of the waiver request. DOS still reviews the individual case and USCIS remains the final waiver authority.
The statement begins consideration of the waiver request
The Foreign Affairs Manual warns that exchange visitors sometimes incorrectly assume a home-government statement guarantees waiver approval.
DOS conducts its own review
The Department reviews the individual case, including program, policy, and foreign-relations considerations, before deciding whether to recommend waiver.
U.S. government funding can weigh strongly against waiver
State Department guidance states that U.S. government financing may indicate strong program considerations against granting the waiver, and the public FAQ says such waiver recommendation applications are generally denied.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a No Objection Statement an approval notice?
No.
Can DOS still recommend against waiver?
Yes.
Who grants the final waiver?
USCIS.
Need Help With a J-1 Waiver?
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