J1 grace period ends 3 days before I leave. How to proceed?
I bought my ticket to go back to my country according to my DS2019 dates, which expired on Dec 20 (so my grace period would be until Jan 20), but later I received another DS2019 from my sponsor with a new expiration, this time on Dec 12 (grace period = Jan 12) but I leave on the 15th, 3 days after this new grace period ends. I tried to contact my sponsor but they won't answer and to change my ticket is too expensive at this point. If I leave 3 days after my grace period is over, will I have a problem with that? Will I be able to come back at another time? Besides the J1 visa I also have a tourism visa.
Best Answer
For any Visa related problems, you must feel free to contact "INS - Immegration and Naturalization Services" of US Govt.
I am sure they would understand that your intention can not be any violation in staying just 3 days more and they will allow you officially to extend it to 3 days. Better to get permission than to keep guessing how much will you damage your reputation as rule abiding visitor.
They do have fax numbers and you can keep a copy when you depart in case you have not received reply in-time.
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Can I travel during grace period?
This is called the \u201cGrace Period.\u201d The grace period allows participants to travel in the U.S. and/or to prepare for and depart the United States. It is not to be used for any other purpose (including working, as well as departing the U.S. and attempting to reenter again during that grace period).How long can I stay after J-1 expires?
Grace Period: J-1 Visa Holders have a 30 day grace period after the end date on their DS-2019 Form. The Grace Period is a benefit of the J-1 status to allow J-1 visa holders time after their status to remain in the US. Grace Period time can be used: To travel domestically (within the United States)What is the grace period for J-1 visa?
J-1 scholars are given a 30-day grace period at the end of the program. This means that you have until 30 days after your program end date to depart the U.S.Can you get an extension on a J-1 visa?
Summary of J-1 Visa ExtensionsThere are special extensions available for professors and research scholars who are on the J-1 visa program. After the initial three-month maximum duration period, eligible individuals can extend their stay for an added six months to complete their designated research or program.J1 Visa: Grace Period Explained
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