Commonly referred to as: 2 Year Rule, 2 Year Home Rule, 212(e). Do not confuse with the 24 Month Bar that affects only J-1 Research Scholars and Professors.
DS-2019 with two year note (click to enlarge)
There are generally 2 places you can look to find out if you are subject.
Not all J visa-holders become subject to the 2 Year Rule. There are 3 grounds on which an exchange visitor can become subject:
Visa with two year note (click to enlarge)
J visa-holders or former J visa-holders who are subject to the 2 Year Rule must reside and be physically present in their “home” country for 2 years before being eligible for certain immigration benefits. While subject to this requirement, you:
Generally, the country which was your country of legal permanent residence when you received your J-1 status is the country to which you must return to fulfill the 2 Year Rule.
If you still are unsure whether you are subject to the 2 Year Rule, you may request an Advisory Opinion from the Department of State.
If you are unable to return to your home country to fulfill the 2 Year Rule, you must obtain a waiver approved by the Department of State prior to changing status in the U.S. or being issued a visa in certain categories for travel to the U.S. The process of applying for a waiver of the 2 Year Rule is done by you. ISSS is not involved in the waiver process. Review the Department of State’s waiver information to see your eligibility and instructions.
IMPORTANT: If your waiver is granted, you are no longer eligible for a J program extension.