Extending Your DS-2019

Notice that this information has not been updated for new ruling

IMPORTANT NOTICE The content on this webpage has not been updated to be consistent with the July 2026 final rule eliminating "duration of status" (D/S) for F and J nonimmigrants in favor of a fixed admission period. Please contact ISSP at globe@wm.edu for questions about your immigration situation. Visit the Immigration Updates webpage for more information about the elimination of D/S final rule.

Per U.S. immigration law, a scholar in J-1 status may request an extension of their DS-2019 (and period of authorized stay) provided that all the following conditions apply:

• The scholar will not exceed the time limits for their J-1 category
• The academic host/department agrees to the extension
• The scholar has not been recommended for or granted a waiver of the Two year Home Residency Requirement for this J-1 program
• The scholar has not violated the terms of their J-1 status
• The extension must be approved prior to the expiration of the scholar's current program (as listed on their DS-2019 immigration document).
• Updated funding and health insurance may need to be submitted.

Requesting a J-1 Scholar DS-2019 Extension

• Login to iStart using your W&M ID and Password.
• Click on J-1 Scholar Services in the menu on the left side. Then, click on J-1 Scholar Extension Request and complete the form.
• Your host department will be contacted after you have completed the form to review and verify the request.
• Once your extension is approved you will receive an email with instructions on collecting the updated DS-2019. 

The DS-2019s of any J-2s will be automatically extended with the extension of the J-1.