How does a J-1 visa holder transfer programs?
If the scholar is in the U.S. under the sponsorship of another J-1 program, the DS-2019 form will be forwarded to him or her. Clearance to transfer from one J-1 sponsor to another must be sought from the original sponsor. The application is then returned to the second university/agency. The scholar may not take up the position at the new University until the transfer has been successfully completed, and the transfer must be completed prior to the individual’s termination from the previous J-1 program. The total period of time that is available to the J-1 visa holder is still 3 years.
