What is changing?
Historically, J-1 exchange visitors have generally been admitted to the United States for “Duration of Status” (D/S). This meant that rather than receiving a specific immigration status expiration date, they could remain in the U.S. as long as they continued to properly maintain their J-1 status and participate in their authorized program.
Beginning September 15, J-1 exchange visitors entering the United States or changing to J-1 status will instead receive a specific “Admit Until Date” (AUD). This date will establish the last day they are authorized to remain in the United States in J-1 status.
What does this mean for your J-1 intern/trainee?
For most Intern and Trainee programs, very little should change during the originally approved program period. DHS will generally use the Program End Date listed on the participant’s Form DS-2019 when determining their Admit Until Date.
The biggest impact may occur when a host company and participant later decide to extend the training or internship beyond the originally approved Program End Date.
Previously, One To World could generally process an eligible extension in SEVIS and issue an updated DS-2019 without the participant separately applying to extend their immigration status. Under the new rule, if the new Program End Date extends beyond the participant’s Admit Until Date, the participant will also need to take additional action to maintain lawful J-1 status. This may mean either:
- Filing an Extension of Stay application (Form I-539) with USCIS, or
- Departing the United States and seeking readmission in J-1 status using the updated DS-2019 and a valid J-1 visa.
What do we need from host companies?
The most important change is simply planning ahead and communicating with One To World early.
If you believe there is a possibility that you may want to extend an intern or trainee’s program, please let us know as early as possible. This is especially important for participants whose initial programs are shorter than the J-1 category maximum.
As a reminder, standard J-1 Intern programs may generally last up to 12 months, while most J-1 Trainee programs may last up to 18 months. Trainee programs in Agriculture and Hospitality & Tourism are generally limited to 12 months.
What is One To World doing?
One To World will continue to monitor participants’ program dates, maintain their SEVIS records, and issue Forms DS-2019. We will also review our current participants before the September 15 effective date and make applicable SEVIS updates based on the new Department of State guidance.
We will communicate directly with participants when individual action is required and will work with both the participant and host company when an extension is being considered.
The main takeaway for hosts: This change does not mean that J-1 Intern and Trainee programs are becoming shorter. Rather, J-1 participants will now have a specific immigration status expiration date, making it especially important that any potential program extensions are discussed with One To World well in advance.
Other Updates
Travel Restrictions
- We continue to monitor federal travel and visa restrictions affecting nationals of certain countries. Host companies working with current or prospective international participants should be aware that these restrictions may affect visa issuance or entry to the United States. We encourage you to contact One To World regarding any participant-specific concerns.
Legal Challenge to the D/S Rule
- On August 18, NAFSA: Association of International Educators, the Presidents’ Alliance on Higher Education and Immigration, and a coalition of other organizations filed a federal lawsuit challenging DHS’s final rule ending Duration of Status. The coalition has also requested a preliminary injunction. At this time, the rule is still scheduled to take effect September 15, 2026, and One To World is continuing to prepare for implementation while closely monitoring the litigation for any developments.
For any questions please reach out to Marisa Silva at [email protected].
