UCLA
Dashew Center
for International Students & Scholars

DS-2019 Eligibility

The following restrictions apply to J-1 Exchange Visitors (see J-1 VISA CATEGORIES section for additional restrictions):

  • A fully or predominantly virtual program is not permitted.

  • If the visitor had been in a previous J program (except in a Research Scholar or Professor Category) which lasted for more than 6 months and seeks to begin a new program, on J-1 Research Scholar or Professor category, there must be a 12-month gap between the end date of the previous J program and the starting date of the new program before they can be eligible to enter the US to start the new program.

  • If the visitor had completed a previous J program in the U.S. as a Professor or Research Scholar , they are subject to a 24-months bar (gap) to start a new J-1 program as a Professor or Research Scholar.

  • When requesting J-1 Student Non-Degree category – Student is not eligible for J-1 status if fully supported by personal funds.

  • If the visitor has applied for an H class visa or U.S. Permanent Resident status (‘green card’) they are NOT eligible to apply for a DS-2019 form for J visa status.

  • If the visitor had applied for and received a Waiver of the Two Year Home Residence Requirement from the State Department or USCIS, they are NOT eligible to extend their current DS-2019 form.

  • If the position is tenure track, visitor is not eligible for J-1 status. Cannot be a candidate for a tenure track position.

  • Visitor's primary site of activity must be UCLA, unless visitor is conducting activity at an off-campus institution as part of a collaborative project with UCLA and is maintaining their UCLA appointment. There must be a written agreement between UCLA and the other institution in relation to the visitor's activity. If the visitor is only working remotely from a residence and will not be present at UCLA, they are NOT eligible to apply for a DS-2019 form for J visa status.