What is Form DS-2019?
FAQ.
Answered by Robin Catmur-Smith, Managing Director of the International Student Resource Center
Last updated: July, 2026
What is Form DS-2019?
Form DS-2019 is the “Certificate of Eligibility for Exchange Visitor (J-1) Status.” A U.S. Department of State-designated program sponsor issues it from the SEVIS system, and you need it to pay the SEVIS fee before applying for your J-1 visa, and entering the U.S.. The document and your I-94 information sheet will serve to prove your exchange visitor status in the U.S..
What’s on it?
Your program category, sponsor information, program dates, and financial support details. It will also show whether you are subject to the 212(e) home residence requirement.
What you need it for:
Paying the I-901 SEVIS fee
Applying for a J-1 visa at a U.S. consulate
Entering the U.S. in J-1 status at a port of entry
Proving your lawful exchange visitor status while in the U.S.
Your ARO (Alternate Responsible Officer) at your program sponsor updates and signs your DS-2019 for work authorization (on-campus employment and Academic Training), program extensions, and travel signatures. Keep it safe and never travel without your original, signed copy.
