#  24-month Bar FAQ 

 



## Summary

This page provides answers to common questions about the 24-month bar on reentry for [J-1 research scholars and professors](/visas-immigration/scholar-student-intern "Scholar & Student Intern Visas").



 

 

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###    Can I change jobs and have a new J-1 Professor/ Research Scholar visa with a new employer within the 5 year limit?  expand\_more  

Yes. If a J-1 professor/ research scholar leaves one employer and moves to a new job with another University (that also sponsors J-1 visas) they can transfer to the J-1 program of the new employer. These scholars may keep extending and changing employers via the J-1 transfer process for up to 5 years.

**NOTE:** There cannot be a gap of time between employers. Scholars need to communicate to both employers their intent to remain in the United States on a J visa.

 

 



###    What if I need to leave the United States for a meeting or conference—will I have to wait 24 months before I can return?  expand\_more  

No. As long as the J-1 professor/ research scholar continues with the original Harvard affiliation, short stays outside the United States are permitted, and do not constitute a completion of the J program.

 

 



###    I have a J-1 Professor/ Research Scholar visa that is only valid for one year. I may stay longer if the grant is renewed for one more year. Will I have to go home for 24 months or can I extend my J visa for a second year?  expand\_more  

J-1 professor/ research scholars may extend their stay for up to 5 years as long as there is no gap of time and the HIO receives the requests of extension before the expiration of their current Forms DS-2019.

 

 



###    Are the two year home residence requirement and the 24-month bar the same thing?  expand\_more  

No. As mentioned in #2 above, the 24-month bar affects only scholars who have had the J-1 visa status in the Professor/ Research Scholar category, and who wish to use the same category again. The two year home residence requirement can be an issue for any J visa holder - not just those who have been in the J-1 Professor/ Research Scholar category.

 

 



###    During my 24 months outside the United States, may I return to the United States for short visits?  expand\_more  

Yes. You may return to the United States on any kind of visa, including the J-1 Short-term Scholar visa category. You are only prevented from returning on the J-1 visa in the Research Scholar/Professor category.