The Form DS-2019, Certificate of Eligibility for Exchange Visitor (J-1) Status, is a crucial document for individuals participating in the J-1 Exchange Visitor Program in the United States. This document is issued by designated program sponsors and serves as official proof that the individual has been accepted into an exchange program recognized by the U.S. Department of State.
The DS-2019 plays a key role in the J-1 visa application process, as it allows exchange visitors to apply for a J-1 visa at a U.S. consulate, enter the U.S. for their program, and maintain lawful status throughout their stay. Understanding its purpose, application process, and requirements is essential for anyone considering or currently participating in a J-1 exchange program.
What is Form DS-2019?
The DS-2019 is a multi-purpose document that:
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Serves as Proof of Program Acceptance – Confirms the exchange visitor has been approved for a J-1 program.
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Supports the J-1 Visa Application – Required for scheduling a visa interview and obtaining a visa stamp.
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Defines the Exchange Program Details – Specifies program category, start/end dates, sponsor information, and funding details.
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Allows Legal Entry and Stay in the U.S. – Essential for maintaining J-1 status while in the country.
Only individuals sponsored by U.S. Department of State-designated sponsors can obtain a DS-2019. The form is not issued directly by the U.S. government but by approved universities, research institutions, or exchange program organizations.
Who Needs Form DS-2019?
The J-1 Exchange Visitor Visa is intended for non-immigrants participating in approved cultural exchange programs. The DS-2019 is required for the following categories of J-1 visa holders:
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Students – Pursuing studies at U.S. universities or institutions.
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Research Scholars & Professors – Conducting research or teaching at universities or research organizations.
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Interns & Trainees – Gaining professional experience through training programs.
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Teachers – Teaching in U.S. schools at the primary, secondary, or special education level.
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Physicians – Participating in medical training programs.
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Au Pairs & Camp Counselors – Engaging in childcare or summer camp cultural exchange programs.
Note: Dependents of J-1 visa holders (spouse and children under 21) need a DS-2019 to apply for a J-2 visa.
How to Obtain Form DS-2019
The process of obtaining a DS-2019 involves several steps:
1. Find a Designated Sponsor
Since only designated sponsors can issue Form DS-2019, the first step is securing acceptance into an approved J-1 exchange program. This may be a university, employer, or government-approved organization.
2. Receive a Sponsor Invitation and Complete Documentation
The sponsor will require documentation to process your DS-2019, including:
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Passport information
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Proof of financial support (scholarships, personal funds, employer sponsorship, etc.)
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Proof of English language proficiency
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Health insurance coverage (as required by U.S. law)
3. Sponsor Issues the DS-2019
Once approved, the designated sponsor generates the DS-2019 through the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS). Each DS-2019 has a unique SEVIS identification number.
4. Pay the SEVIS Fee (Form I-901)
Before applying for a J-1 visa, the SEVIS I-901 fee must be paid. This fee is separate from the visa application fee and is required to maintain SEVIS records.
5. Use DS-2019 for the J-1 Visa Application
With the DS-2019 in hand, the next step is scheduling a visa interview at a U.S. consulate or embassy and submitting Form DS-160 (Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application).
Key Sections of Form DS-2019
1. Personal Information
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Name (as per passport)
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Date of birth
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Citizenship and nationality
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SEVIS identification number
2. Sponsor Information
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Name of the designated sponsor organization
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Sponsor’s address and contact details
3. Program Details
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J-1 visa category (e.g., student, researcher, intern)
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Program start and end dates
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Field of study or area of research (if applicable)
4. Funding Sources
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Breakdown of how the exchange visitor’s stay will be funded (self-funded, government-sponsored, employer-sponsored, etc.)
5. Travel and Work Authorization
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Travel Signature Section: The DS-2019 must be signed by the program sponsor before re-entering the U.S. after international travel.
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Employment Authorization: Specifies if the exchange visitor is eligible to work under the program.
Using Form DS-2019 for Your J-1 Visa Application
Step 1: Pay the SEVIS Fee
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Visit the SEVIS I-901 payment website and pay the required fee using credit card, check, or bank transfer.
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Keep the payment receipt for the visa interview.
Step 2: Complete the DS-160 Visa Application Form
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Fill out Form DS-160 online, print the confirmation page, and schedule a visa interview appointment.
Step 3: Schedule and Attend the Visa Interview
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Gather required documents:
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Passport
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DS-2019
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DS-160 confirmation
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SEVIS fee receipt
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Financial documents
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Sponsor letter (if applicable)
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Attend the interview at a U.S. embassy or consulate and answer questions regarding your program.
Maintaining J-1 Status with Form DS-2019
Once in the U.S., J-1 visa holders must comply with program and immigration requirements to maintain valid status.
1. Keep DS-2019 Updated
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Ensure your program dates and sponsor details remain current.
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If your program is extended, your sponsor must update SEVIS and issue a new DS-2019.
2. Work Restrictions
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J-1 holders cannot work outside of their program without explicit authorization.
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Certain J-1 categories allow on-campus work or internships related to the field of study.
3. Travel and Re-Entry
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To travel internationally and return to the U.S., the DS-2019 must be signed by the program sponsor.
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If re-entering the U.S. after the program end date, a new visa may be required.
4. Maintain Health Insurance
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J-1 visa holders must have mandatory health insurance that meets U.S. Department of State requirements.
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Failure to maintain health insurance may result in termination from the program.
Common Issues and How to Handle Them
1. Lost or Damaged DS-2019
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Contact your sponsor immediately to request a replacement.
2. Program Extension Requests
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Submit an extension request before the program end date if additional time is needed.
3. Change of Sponsor or Program
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Changing a sponsor or program may require a new DS-2019 and SEVIS record transfer.
4. Two-Year Home Residency Requirement (212(e))
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Some J-1 visa holders must return to their home country for two years before applying for certain U.S. visas.
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If subject to this rule, options include applying for a waiver or complying with the requirement.
Conclusion
The Form DS-2019 is a vital document for J-1 exchange visitors, serving as the foundation for obtaining a J-1 visa, maintaining legal status, and participating in U.S. exchange programs. Understanding its purpose, usage, and requirements ensures a smooth experience for individuals coming to the U.S. under the J-1 Exchange Visitor Program.
By following the proper procedures, maintaining compliance with program rules, and keeping the DS-2019 valid, exchange visitors can maximize their opportunities while avoiding legal complications.
