J-1 Visa Intern & Trainee Program
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      1. ICLS Knowledge Base
      2. J-1 Visa Intern & Trainee Program

      Can I extend my J-1 program?

      Guidance on if your J-1 Intern/Trainee Program can be extended or not

      Program extensions may be granted in certain circumstances. Contact ICLS or your sending agency to inquire about the exact process. Here are some things to consider when deciding to extend your program:

      1. Program Duration - we cannot extend your program beyond the maximum duration. 
        • Interns and Hospitality Trainees have a maximum program length of 12 months. 
        • Non-Hospitality Trainees have a maximum program length of 18 months.
      2. Genuine Need for Additional Training - you may not extend your program simply because you want to. You must have additional topics to learn and train in while on program. These additional topics will be outlined in new phases of your DS-7002 that will be added to your existing DS-7002 training plan. 
      3. Good Standing and Host Approval - if your program is not in good standing or if your host doesn't want to extend your program, we may not extend your program. 
      4. Time - it takes time to process an extension! Apply for an extension at least 2 months before your current program end date. 
      5. Sufficient Funds - you must be able to support yourself financially during your extension. 
      6. Housing - you must have reliable housing and transportation during your extension.
      7. Passport Validity - check your passport expiration date. We may not extend your program if your new program end date is within 3 months of your passport expiring. 
      8. Evaluations - all applicable evaluations from you and your host must be complete before we will process an extension. 
      9. Fees - ICLS will charge a fee for extending your program and health insurance coverage. This must be paid before the extension is processed. 

      Warning About International Travel During Extension Period
      It is important to note the key differences between extending a program and your visa. When you originally applied for your J-1 visa at the American consulate in your home country, you were granted a visa that has an expiration date that usually matches your DS-2019. If you choose to extend your J-1 program, the extension amends your program dates in SEVIS and on your DS-2019. However, extensions are not reflected on your J-1 visa sticker in your passport. Because extensions are not reflected on your J-1 visa sticker, and the visa is what allows you to exit and enter the country during your program, ICLS DOES NOT RECOMMEND TRAVELING INTERNATIONALLY DURING YOUR PROGRAM EXTENSION PERIOD AND EXPECTING TO RE-ENTER THE US.