How to Extend a J1 Visa in California: Requirements & Steps (2026)

If you are in California with a J1 visa and want to stay longer, you may be wondering if it’s possible to extend your J1 visa. In this guide, we’ll explain the requirements and steps you need to follow, based on official information from the U.S. Department of State, with a special focus on J1 holders in cities like Los Angeles, San Francisco, San Diego, and Sacramento.

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The Tax Moves Blog

Aug 27, 2025 | Learning IRS

U.S. Capitol building in Washington D.C., symbolizing federal legislation and the One Big Beautiful Bill Act affecting international students and J-1 visa holders

Can You Extend a J1 Visa in California?

Yes, you can, as long as you meet the following conditions:

  • Your J1 category allows an extension.

  • Your authorized sponsor approves the request.

  • You haven’t reached the maximum program duration allowed for your category.

👉 Source: U.S. Department of State – Exchange Visitor Program

Main Requirements to Extend a J1 Visa in California

  • Request through your sponsor: Contact your program sponsor in California, whether it’s for Work & Travel, a university in San Diego, or research centers in San Francisco.

  • Required documents: Valid passport, updated DS-2019, and a sponsor letter.

  • Payment of fees: Some extensions require administrative fees.

  • Maximum duration: Depends on your program category (Work & Travel, Au Pair, Research Scholar, etc.).

Steps to Extend Your J1 Visa

  • Contact your sponsor in California and submit your request.

  • Your sponsor reviews your case and updates your DS-2019.

  • The extension is recorded in the SEVIS system.

  • With your updated DS-2019, you can legally continue your program in the U.S.

What Other Companies Won’t Tell You

Many companies provide generic visa information and services that cover all types of visas.
At J1 Go Tax, we focus on the real needs of J1 holders. That’s why, beyond helping you understand your J1 visa process, we also support you during the 2026 tax season:

  • We only work with J1 visa holders who receive a W-2.

  • If you don’t get a refund, you don’t pay.

  • We provide a human and specialized approach, not the automated and generic service you get elsewhere.

young women reviewing J-1 visa tax documents on a laptop, using J1 Go Tax for accurate filing and guidance

Extending your J1 visa in California depends on your sponsor and the limits of your program category. Always keep your documents updated and rely on official sources.
And when it’s time to file your taxes for the 2026 season, remember that J1 Go Tax is here to give you specialized, reliable, and human support.

Core Guides & Calculators

1. Learn everything about J1 visa taxes — our complete 2026 step-by-step guide for nonresident workers with W-2 income.

2. Estimate your refund instantly with our J1 visa tax calculator — no signup required.

3. Compare Form 1040 vs 1040NR for J1 visa holders and find out which one applies to you.

4. Understand the importance of your DS-2019 form — it defines your program, tax status, and eligibility.

Forms & Tax Documents

5. Did you receive a 1099 instead of a W-2? Here’s what to do — Form 1099 for J1 visa workers explained.

6. Learn how to apply for your SSN or ITIN as a J1 visa holder before filing your taxes.

7. Understand your IRS transcripts for J1 visa taxes — what they show and how to request them.

8. Received a Form 1042-S? Discover what it means and how to include it in your tax return.

9. Find your Form W-2 for J1 visa — and learn what each box means when you file.

10. File correctly using the official Form 1040NR for J1 visa holders — step-by-step.

11. Don’t forget your Form 8843 — it’s mandatory even if you had no income.

12. Check this J1 visa tax return example using Form 1040NR to understand how everything fits together.

Special Cases & IRS Resources

13. Missed the April deadline? Learn how to file J1 visa taxes after April and still get your refund.

14. Review official IRS guidance on Taxation of J-1 visa holders and resident status.

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