What are the different waivers a foreign exchange visitor can apply for?

A foreign exchange visitor can apply for a waiver based on one of five statutory bases:

  • “No objection” statement from visitor’s home country
  • Request from an interested U.S. Government Agency (IGA Waiver)
  • Claim of persecution in home country if visitor returns
  • Claim of exceptional hardship to a U.S. citizen or permanent resident spouse or child if visitor returns to home country
  • Request from a designated State Health Agency