The U.S. government has restrictions (called “bars”) on J-1s who want to re-enter the country as J-1 professors or research scholars.
Restrictions for re-entering the U.S.
12-month bar for people in J status
A person who was in the United States in J status for more than six months in the previous year may not enter the United States as a J-1 professor or research scholar for 12 months after the end of his or her most recent J program. However, they may return to the United States in a different visa or another J-1 category.
Time as a J-1 short-term scholar does not count toward the 12-month bar.
24-month bar for J-1 professors and research scholars
If you come to the United States as a J-1 professor or research scholar or as a J-2 dependent of a professor or research scholar, your J program may be extended for up to five years. After your program ends, you are ineligible to begin a new professor or research scholar program at any U.S. institution for 24 months. This is known as the 24-month bar, and it is different from the two-year home residency requirement.
Duration of Status update for international students and scholars
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has finalized changes to the Duration of Status (D/S) policy affecting many F-1 students and J-1 exchange visitors.
September 17, 2026 update: Implementation of the expected regulatory changes that were set to take effect on September 15 has been delayed. At this time, the existing Duration of Status framework remains in effect, with no changes at this time for F-1 and J-1 students and J-1 scholars. Further information will be posted on IU Global's Duration of Status updates page as it becomes available.