Returning Home

Frequently Asked Questions

May I extend my visa?

No.  The J1 Summer Work/Travel Visa cannot be extended.  

Do I have to keep working while in the U.S.?

You are expected to work from your visa start date to your visa end date.  If you quit your job or are fired from your job, you have 3 weeks in which to find a new job.  If you decide not to find a new job, or if you are not able to find a new job within 3 weeks, the U.S. Government requires ERDT to end your visa.  This just means that ERDT will change your visa end date to end immediately.  It does not have a negative effect on your future ability to come to the U.S.  You still will have 30 days to travel.    

Can I go home, or leave my job, early?

Yes, you can go home early.  Remember, though, that there may be penalties for leaving your housing or job early - for example, you may not receive your housing deposit back.  Read your housing agreement carefully to ensure you understand any penalties for leaving early.

How can I get my final paycheck, housing deposit and/or tax refund after I have returned home?

Keep your U.S. bank account open when you leave the U.S., and ask your employer or housing provider if he/she will deposit the money in your U.S. bank account. The IRS can do a direct deposit of your tax refund into your account. You can transfer the money to your account at home, and close the account after everything is settled.

Check out Money and Taxes for more information about filing your tax return.