§ 62.75 - Extension of program participation.

(a) A sponsor may extend an exchange visitor's participation in the Exchange Visitor Program up to the limit of the permissible period of participation authorized for the specified program category by entering a new end program date and an optional comment—all other information collected on a DS–2019 will be automatically completed by SEVIS.

(1) A sponsor extending the program of an exchange visitor who is not currently listed in the SEVIS database is required to create a record for the exchange participant (and the accompanying spouse and any dependents as a “continuing exchange visitor”. In creating the exchange visitor's SEVIS record, the sponsor shall issue the exchange visitor (and the accompanying spouse and any dependent children) a duly executed Form DS–2019 reflecting such extension.

(2) When creating a SEVIS record for a “continuing exchange visitor,” the initial program start date and Form number taken from the non-SEVIS Form IAP–66 or DS–2019 issued to begin new program must be entered in the exchange visitor's SEVIS record.

(b) A responsible officer or alternate responsible officer seeking an extension of program status on behalf of an exchange visitor in excess of the duration of program participation authorized for the specific category shall:

(1) Submit an electronic request to the Department through the real-time interactive mode in SEVIS.

(2) Create a record for the exchange participant (and the accompanying spouse and any dependent children) as a “continuing exchange visitor” listing the initial program start date and Form number taken from the non-SEVIS Form IAP–66 or DS–2019 issued to begin new program.

(3) Submit written supporting documentation and the required non-reimbursable fee to the Department within 30 calendar days of the SEVIS submission date.