The following outline the procedure for how to process a J-1 Waiver:

Step 1

To apply for a J-1 Waiver Recommendation, applicants must complete a J-1 Visa Waiver Review Application.  This includes a J-1 Visa Review Application (also known as a Data Sheet), two self-addressed, stamped, legal-size envelopes (SASE) and a processing fee of US$230 per/application.  The money must be in the form of a cashier's check or a money order payable to the U.S. Department of State.  The application must be mailed to:

   (Courier Service):      Department of State
                                 Waiver Review Division
                                 Box 952137
                                 1005 Convention Place
                                 St. Louis, MO 63101-1200

   (Regular Service):      US Department of State
                                 Waiver Review Division
                                 P.O. Box 952137
                                 St. Louis, MO 63195-2137

Please include the following applicant's information on the cashier's check or money order:  Name, Date & Place of Birth.

Step 2

Once the Waiver Review Division has received the applicant's J-1 Visa Waiver Review Application, additional instructions will be sent, along with the applicant's assigned case number.  The instructions will include a list of documents that must be submitted in order to complete the application.  Once the applicant has received a case number, that number must be written on all submitted documentation, as well as on the outside envelope of all future correspondences.  If these instructions are not followed precisely, all submitted documents will be returned to the applicant.

Step 3

All requested documents are submitted to the State Department.  It is the applicant's responsibility to ensure that the application is complete.  Ifa "No Objection" statement is necessary, it must be submitted directly to the Waiver Review Division by the home country's embassy. 

To check the status of your application, please call (202)663-1600.  You must know your case numer to access the system.

Step 4

Once the Waiver Review Division has reviewed the completed file, it will forward its recommendation directly to the USCIS.  The applicant will receive a copy of the recommendation at the address provided on the applicant's J-1 Visa Waiver Review Application.  However, if the application is denied, the applicant will be notified directly.

Link
The U.S. State Department has a list of frequently asked questions regarding J-1waivers at http://www.travel.state.gov/visa/temp/info/info_1294.html