The purpose of the J-1 Exchange Visitor Program is to facilitate understanding between the U.S. and other countries through mutual exchange. To encourage this goal, the U.S. Department of State created bars on repeat J program participation. The 12- and 24-month bars may apply to you if you previously spent time in the U.S. in J-1 or J-2 status and now wish to return as a J-1 Research Scholar/Professor. Depending on the duration and category of your previous J program (see box 4 on Form DS-2019), you may be subject to a 12-month bar, a 24-month bar, or neither.