Extending Your Status (Scholars)

On this page

• J-1 Categories
• H-1B / O-1/ E-3 / TN

J-1 Categories

Your J-1 “category” can be found in section 4 of your Form DS-2019. Below you can find the visa sponsorship limit for your category. 

Your academic department can provide further guidance on Columbia University limits that may also pertain to your specific academic title of affiliation.

If eligible for an extension, you and your department administrator would follow the extension process listed at the bottom of the webpage matching your Columbia affiliation below. Extension requests should reach ISSO no later than 2 months prior to the DS-2019 expiration date.

• Extending J-1 sponsorship for an Academic Appointment
• Extending J-1 sponsorship for a Visiting Scholar/Scientist (independent researcher)
• Extending J-1 sponsorship for a Visiting Student Intern

H-1B / O-1/ E-3 / TN

* Exceptions for extending an H-1B beyond the 6-year limit:

• Extending for time spent outside the U.S. If any part of the six years was spent abroad, it may be possible to extend to recapture that time. Passport stamps, e-tickets, and other evidence of time spent elsewhere will be required.

• Pending or Approved Labor Certification or I-140 Immigrant Petition. An extension may be possible under limited circumstances. Please consult your ISSO adviser about this option.