According to this IRS link, A J-1 alien can exclude U.S. days of presence as a “student” for purposes of the Substantial Presence Test for up to five calendar years. The five-year limit is a lifetime limit that can’t be renewed but may be extended if certain conditions are met. For detail information, see Exempt Individual - Who is a Student. Generally, a J-1 alien cannot exclude U.S. day of presence as a “teacher or trainee” for more than two calendar years.
It depends on what you are classified as a researcher. If a student, there is a five-year lifetime exemption period. A teacher is only two-year.
**Say "Thanks" by clicking the thumb icon in a post
**Mark the post that answers your question by clicking on "Mark as Best Answer"
