DOS Permits Extension of Stay for J-1 Au Pair Program Participants
Posted Jun 16, 2006
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The U.S. Department of State (DOS) issued a Final Rule on June 8, 2006, that permits one who is sponsoring an au pair to extend the au pair's stay by six (6), nine (9), or twelve (12) months beyond the original period of stay. Au pairs are J-1 exchange visitors, age 18 to 26 years, who provide childcare services to their U.S. host families as part of the J-1 cultural exchange program. The notice also applies to participants in the EduCare component of the au pair program, for caregivers of school-aged children who work a reduced schedule while attending school.
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Unlike most applications, which only require that an extension be filed before a person's status expires, an application to extend an au pair's stay must be filed at least 30 days prior to the expiration of the J-1 status. The extension is available only once and must be filed electronically through the SEVIS program. Proof that the au pair has met the educational requirements must be included.
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This provision to extend the J-1 status for au pairs will serve the J-1 candidate, the U.S. family, and the cultural exchange component that is beneficial to long-term U.S. policy considerations.