US proposes new J-1 visa rules for Indian researchers and professors

The US State Department proposed updates to J-1 Exchange Visitor Program regulations, adding new termination reasons and stricter extension timelines.

J-1 program sponsors must terminate exchange visitors who submit false or incomplete information, or who engage in unauthorized employment.

The State Department would gain authority to terminate a participant's program if their visa is revoked or canceled immediately.

Extension requests beyond the maximum duration must be submitted via SEVIS at least three months before the requested extension starts; no late submissions allowed.

This follows a recent regulation replacing 'duration of status' with fixed admission periods up to four years, affecting Indian researchers, doctors, professors, and trainees.