You may enter the U.S. no more than 30 days prior to the program start date on your
DS-2019. When passing through immigration, you will be asked for your passport with
I-94 card (the card you receive on the airplane) and your DS-2019.
If you are traveling prior to your initial entry and are planning to apply for a visa
during your travels, please be aware that you can only apply for a visa in the country
of which you are a citizen.
Traveling During Your Stay
You may need a visa if traveling outside of the United States. You can find this information
on embassy websites.
Check to make sure your passport is valid
Check to make sure your J-1 visa is valid
Get the signature of the Responsible Officer on your DS-2019 prior to travel outside
the U.S.
If you have been registered in NSEERS, please ask the International Student Advisor
about “Check-out Procedures.”
Departing the United States
Check to make sure your passport is valid.
After completion of your program, you have a 30-day grace period during which you
may remain in the U.S. This grace period begins on the day following the program end
date on your DS-2019. You should not leave the U.S. and then try to re-enter the U.S.
during the 30-day grace period.
If you have been registered in NSEERS, please ask your International Student Advisor
about “Check-out Procedures.”
Other Resources
You can find useful brochures and tips at the State Department's BridgeUSA website.
