J-1 Researcher
The Exchange Visitor Program is managed by the U.S. Department of State. Its purpose is to increase mutual understanding between the people of the United States and people of other countries through educational and cultural exchanges. Southern Illinois University Edwardsville (SIUE) is an immigration sponsor of the Exchange Visitor Program. J-1 exchange visitors must all be engaged in their programs full-time.
Research Scholars and Short-Term Scholars
- J-1 Researchers are invited to conduct research in close collaboration with SIUE faculty on research that is of mutual interest and benefit.
- Scholars generally do not enroll in or audit classes. Instead, they are engaged full time in conducting research, lecturing, observing, consulting or training.
- Scholars may be paid or unpaid by the University.
- Hosting departments and candidates must outline a specific research plan before immigration documents can be issued.
- Scholars must complete their program on the SIUE campus, not in another city or location.
The Office of International Affairs creates the immigration form (DS-2019) needed to apply for the J-1 visa.
Eligibility
Scholars must be researchers or professors at home, or have similar expertise and qualifications. (To invite undergraduate students, ask about the J-1 Student Intern category.) They must prove English proficiency and adequate funding to cover cost-of-living expenses while in Edwardsville.
Timing
Research Scholars and Professors are eligible to stay in the U.S. from three weeks to five years depending on the program. Short-term (Research) Scholars may stay from one day to six months.
Funding
The Department of State (DOS) requires that Exchange Visitors have sufficient funds to cover their expenses. Scholars can be self-funded; they do not need to be employed or funded by SIUE.
Limitations
Scholars may only engage in employment or receive payment or reimbursement related to their SIUE program for which they have received prior written authorization. Receiving anything in return for services rendered (consulting, presenting) such as pay, free airfare, free hotel stay or lodging, etc., constitutes an employment relationship according to ICE. Any employment must be pre approved by the Office of International Affairs.
