PROGRAM REGULATIONS:
Notification of Departure (Program Completion and Termination)
An Exchange Visitor must complete all program and work-related activities as of the program end date on the DS-2019. The Exchange Visitor has an additional 30 days after the official end date to depart the country. This grace period of 30 days is meant to allow time to prepare for departure, travel and engage in cultural exchange activities.
If for any reason an Exchange Visitor plans to finish the program before the actual end date on the DS-2019, s/he must inform the hosting unit and International Programs. This is important as SEVIS records may need to be adjusted. This may affect future applications and eligibility for J-1 status.
Overstaying one’s visa (i.e. program end date + 30-day grace period) is a SERIOUS immigration violation that almost always has long-term consequences. Any future visa applications are likely to be denied, regardless of the visa classification or purpose of visit to the USA .
When preparing for the completion of a program and stay, the hosting department and the exchange visitor should prepare a Departure Report and submit it to International Programs. Exchange Visitors should complete program requirements, close all accounts and settle outstanding obligations or commitments. Failure to do so could result in being classified as ineligible for reentry to the USA . Here is a check list of reminders:
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