J1 Visa Marriage Concerns

Summary

Marrying a U.S. Citizen does not automatically violate J1 status but may affect future visa applications. Waivers for the two-year home residency requirement include No Objection Statement, U.S. Federal Government Agency request, persecution, exceptional hardship to a U.S. Citizen or legal permanent resident spouse or child, and a request by a Designated State Public Health Department. Consult an immigration attorney for specific advice.

Full Conversation

I am in US from last two years. Fortunately, I found love of my life and he is US citizen. We do want to get married but I am concerned about followings.
Hello Sami, I understand your concerns. Can you please specify what exactly you are worried about? Are you unsure about how marriage might affect your J1 visa status or the two-year home residency requirement?
*. Would it be a violation and affect my J1 status?
Hello Sami, marrying a U.S. citizen wouldn't automatically violate your J1 status. However, it could potentially affect future visa applications, including any attempt to change your status. You should consult with an immigration attorney for specific advice.
Is there any way I can waive two years rule?
Hello Sami, yes, there are ways to waive the two-year home country physical presence requirement. Here are some:
- No Objection Statement
- Request by an Interested U.S. Federal Government Agency
- Persecution
- Exceptional Hardship to a U.S. citizen or legal permanent resident spouse or child
- Request by a Designated State Public Health Department or its Equivalent
Please consult with an immigration attorney for further advice.