Scholars are able to stay in the U.S. on an expired J-1 visa as long as they are properly maintaining their status by being in possession of a valid DS-2019 and valid I-94 card. However, if scholars are traveling and do not plan on using automatic revalidation to re-enter the U.S., they must have a valid visa.
Visas cannot be renewed inside the U.S. Once scholars have made a visa interview appointment at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate abroad, they should review the Embassy or Consulate’s website for details on the visa renewal process including required documents. Scholars are also able to check on the visa wait times for a specific U.S. Embassy or Consulate through the U.S. Department of State website.
The Department of State recommends that scholars apply for a visa in their home country. Scholars who must apply for a visa in a third country must remember the following:
- Scholars cannot return to the U.S. until their visa has been issued.
- If a background check is required, scholars must wait until this is cleared and the wait could be several weeks.
- If the visa application is denied, scholars will not be able to return to the U.S. and will be required to return to their home country.
- If the visa application is denied in Canada or Mexico, Automatic Revalidation does not apply.
- Scholars who plan to renew their visa in Mexico should review OIS’ guidelines on the visa renewal process in Mexico.