Maintaining Status
Visiting scholars have a responsibility to obey immigration laws while in the U.S. In addition to these laws, you must also abide by local, state, and federal laws and University policies that apply to you. Below are some of the basic things that you should do to make sure you maintain their J-1 status. You can also find information about your stay in the Visiting Scholar Handbook.
Check In/Attend Orientation with ISS
All new J-1 scholars must check-in with their International Advisor by attending a mandatory orientation session.
Maintain Health Insurance
J-1 and J-2 visa holders are required to purchase and maintain health insurance that meets the Department of State immigration requirements.
Cross-Cultural Exchange Activities
J-1 scholars are expected by immigration regulations to take part in cross-cultural exchange or socio-cultural activities on or around the campus. This can include attending SIUE lectures or international festivals or traveling to nearby towns or cities and learning about the culture or history.
Don’t Work Illegally
Most scholars at SIUE do not have employment as part of their program. If you believe that your program includes employment or payment, contact your International Advisor. All employment must be directly related to your program's original objectives. Scholars must receive prior permission from their International Advisor before receiving any form of payment or reimbursement for services rendered.
Report Changes to ISS
Immigration regulations state that J-1 scholars must report any change in address, phone number, email address, or name within 10 days of the change. Your DS-2019 is an important document that also needs to be kept up-to-date. Whenever you receive a new DS-2019, read through it carefully, make sure the information is accurate, and sign it. Notify your International Advisor before you make changes to your program.
Keep your Passport Valid
You should keep your passport valid while you are in the U.S. Make sure you know the expiration date and begin the renewal process 6 months before it expires.
Check with your International Advisor Before Traveling Outside the U.S.
You will need a valid travel signature on your DS-2019 from an International Advisor in order to re-enter the U.S. Your advisor will also look over your immigration documents and check that your SEVIS record is in "Active" status. You may request a travel signature by bringing your current DS-2019 to the Office of International Affairs.
Avoid Criminal Activity
While in the U.S., you are required to obey federal, state, and local laws.
Leave the United States on Time
J-1 scholars must depart the U.S. within 30 days of the end date on their program/DS-2019 document.
Request for Replacement DS-2019
If your DS-2019 is lost, stolen or damaged:
- Contact the local police to file a report before requesting a new DS-2019. Make sure to obtain the police report number.
- Submit New I-20/DS-2019 Request Form.
