2-Year Home Residence Requirement (212(e))
U.S. law requires certain people to return for an aggregate of 2 years to either (a) their country of nationality or, (b) the country of last residence, following the completion of a J-1 program. This is called the “Return Residence” requirement (or “Home Residence Requirement”), and also is known as “212(e)” because of the section of the law where it is found (in the Immigration and Nationality Act).
The Return Residence Requirement applies to those J-1 and J-2 visitors:
- Who received funding to participate in the J-1 program from the U.S. government or the government of their country of nationality or last residence, or
- Whose skills or specialized knowledge have been designated (by the U.S. government on a Skills List”) as being needed by the country of nationality or last residence.
These J-1 visitors cannot obtain H or L visa status, or permanent residence, until they have complied with the Return Residence Requirement, unless a waiver is obtained. More information is available at the Department of State.
Please note that this website still is under construction. More immigration information and other visa statuses will be available soon.
Questions? Comments? Contact the Visa Office!