/Office of Global Affairs
Visa and Immigration Services

J-1 Grace Period

As a J-1 student, you are provided a 30-day grace period at the end of your program.

This means you may remain in the United States for up to 30 days after the program end date listed on your Form DS-2019.

Purpose of the Grace Period

The grace period is intended to give you time to:

  • Prepare for your departure from the United States

  • Travel within the United States after completing your program

You are not permitted to continue your program activities during this time.

Employment and Activities During the Grace Period

During the 30-day grace period:

  • You may not work or conduct research

  • You may not continue any program-related activities

Your J-1 program is considered complete as of your program end date.

Travel During the Grace Period

If you choose to travel within the United States during your grace period, you may do so.

However:

  • If you leave the United States during the grace period, you cannot re-enter using your J-1 visa and DS-2019

  • Your J-1 program and grace period will end once you depart the U.S.

Plan your travel carefully before leaving the country.

Early Program Completion

If you complete your program more than 15 days before the end date listed on your Form DS-2019:

  • Stony Brook University is required to update your program end date in SEVIS

  • A new Form DS-2019 will be issued to reflect your actual program end date

  • Your 30-day grace period will begin from the updated end date

Health Insurance Requirement

You must maintain required health insurance coverage:

  • Through the end of your program, and

  • During your entire grace period until you depart the United States

Important Reminders

  • You must depart the United States within 30 days of your program end date

  • You may not work during the grace period

  • You may not re-enter the U.S. in J-1 status after departing during the grace period

  • Your health insurance must remain active until your departure

Questions

If you have questions about your grace period or travel plans, contact Visa and Immigration Services (VIS) before making any arrangements.