The U.S. Department of State has announced a major update to the Exchange Visitor Skills List, effective December 9, 2024. This is the first significant revision in 15 years and removes the two-year home-residency requirement for J-1 visa holders from 34 countries, including China, India, South Korea, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE.
The Exchange Visitor Skills List identifies countries and fields of expertise deemed essential for a country’s development. Nationals of these countries who hold J-1 visas have historically been required to return home for at least two years after completing their programs. The revised list eliminates this requirement for 34 countries.
Countries like China and India have been removed because they no longer align with the updated criteria for developing countries. In contrast, the Philippines remains on the list due to its ongoing need for expertise in designated fields, despite advancements in its educational and economic sectors.
J-1 visa holders from all removed countries will benefit significantly from this change as follows:
- Starting December 9, 2024, the two-year home residency requirement will no longer apply unless triggered by other factors, such as government funding or participation in medical training programs.
- Affected individuals will now be able to pursue other U.S. immigration options, such as H-1Bs or green cards, without the need for waivers.
Keep in mind that this new policy may be subject to legislative challenges. Congress can review and potentially overturn new federal rules within 60 legislative days. If the Skills List revision is rescinded, it is likely the reversal would apply only prospectively. This means individuals who act on the new rule (e.g., by filing for H-1Bs or green cards) before a rescission would retain their benefits.