@pkm4 , the reason for @DaveF1006 's question as to when you entered the country under J-1 visa is that depending on exactly when you entered / admitted with J-1, one hopes that you are just shy of two years and therefore can leave the country for a reasonable period of time, enter with a NEW visa and thus avoid the retroactive bite. This is two years and not two calendar years ( if my memory serves me right ). Just a thought
pk
