On July 17, 2026, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security published a final rule eliminating Duration of Status for certain nonimmigrant students and exchange visitors. The rule takes effect on September 15, 2026. Please visit our Duration of Status Rule Change webpage for additional information and updates.
Canada, Mexico and adjacent islands for J-1 scholars
J-1 scholars
J-1 scholars whose visa has expired may be able to return to the U.S. after traveling to Mexico, Canada and neighboring islands/U.S. territories under the following conditions:
- Visit is not more than 30 days and the purpose is pleasure or vacation only.
- Scholar has maintained full-time J-1 status at all times.
- Scholar has an unexpired passport and unexpired I-94.
- Scholar has DS-2019 endorsed for travel within a year.
- Scholar has not applied for a visa during the visit.
- Scholar is not from the countries identified as State Sponsors of Terrorism by the Department of State.
The automatic visa revalidation process re-validates that you are eligible to enter the U.S. for this single trip. It is not considered a new admission to the U.S. nor a renewal of a visa. If you are considering using the automatic visa revalidation process, please contact ISSC to set up an appointment to meet with an advisor.