If your original training program lasts less than 18 months and if your host organization supports your request for additional training, it may be possible to extend your program up to a maximum program duration of 18 months. Please contact CICD well in advance of any extension request.

If your original internship program lasts less than 12 months and if your host organization supports your request for additional intern activities, it may be possible to extend your program up to a maximum program duration of 12 months. Please contact CICD well in advance of any extension request. You must maintain a “good status” on your J-1 Visa and provide CICD all necessary documentation and application forms at least 30 days prior to the program end date indicated on the ‘TIPP’ and contracts. If your extension application is received late (less than 30 days prior to the program end date) and CICD decides to consider the late request, a US$200 nonrefundable late fee is required in addition to the regular US$550 extension fee. Please see our fee and refund policy for details. To request an extension of training/internship, please contact us, so we can send the necessary application materials to you and your host organization.

If your spouse and/or children are with you in the U.S. on the J-2 Visa, they may request an extension of their stay at the time you submit your application to CICD. If all extensions are approved by CICD, your dependents may remain with you for the period you are allowed to stay in the U.S.

Travel outside the U.S. is restricted during your program extension, unless you obtain a new J-1 Visa that is valid for the appropriate dates and duration of your extended program. You must contact the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to check whether your travel plans comply with current laws, and regulations.

Please note that CICD cannot guarantee that we can accept any particular program extension application. If CICD denies an application, the denial is final and CICD is not required to provide explanations.

We strongly suggest you and your prospective U.S. host organization make a realistic estimate of whether the proposed additional training activities in an extension are justified, and how much time will be necessary to complete all aspects of an extended program before you submit the extension proposal to CICD.