Grace Period

Grace period refers to a specified period of additional time during which the J-1 status is automatically extended without additional paperwork, but only for a specific purpose and type of activity.

A J-1 student may remain in the U.S. for an additional 30 days after the conclusion of the program of study, unlike F-1 students, who have a longer grace period.

• This time may be used for travel or tourism, but inside the U.S. only.  If you were to leave the U.S. while in your grace period, you would not be able to re-enter.
• One may not be a student or employed during this time (but see academic training for information about J-1 visa employment opportunities).