J-1 and J-2 participants who have completed an exchange in J status in any category cannot return to the U.S. as a J-1 Research Scholar or J-1 Professor for 12 months. This bar does not apply to short-term scholars.

Previous J Status Length of Time in J Status Can Return as a Professor or Research Scholar Change of Status to Different Visa Type
J-1 Student Less than 6 months No Bars COS to H1B, L1, K, and PR not allowed if subject to 212e two-year home residency rule
J-1 Student More than 6 months After fulfillment of 12-month bar effective from program end/completion date COS to H1B, L1, K, and PR not allowed if subject to 212e two-year home residency rule
J-1 Short Term Scholar (Visiting Scholar) Less than 6 months No Bars COS to H1B, L1, K, and PR not allowed if subject to 212e two-year home residency rule
J-1 Research Scholar/Professor Anytime (1 month, 1 year, etc.) After fulfillment of 24-month bar effective from program end/completion date COS to H1B, L1, K, and PR not allowed if subject to 212e two-year home residency rule

Note: J-2 Dependents are subject to the same 12 or 24-month bar as the primary J-1.