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International Student & Scholar Services

J-1 Scholar Travel

International Travel for J-1 Scholars:

All J-1 scholars and student interns must obtain a travel signature from ISSS.  To request a travel signature, complete the Travel Signature Request on the ISSS Portal. Processing time is 5-7 business days. Once processed, you will be able to access the electronic copy of the DS-2019 in the ISSS Portal.

The DS-2019 travel endorsement signatures are valid for up to one year.

To reenter the U.S., you should have the following in hand:

  • Valid passport
  • Valid Visa
  • DS-2019 signed for travel within the last year
  • Recent paystub and/or letter of employment from department

J-2 dependents must also have their DS-2019 endorsed for travel.

All J-1 scholars should download the electronic I-94 admission record upon reentry and ensure that they are admitted in J-1 status with an end date of D/S. If you are admitted in a different visa category, or if the end date on the I-94 has anything listed other than D/S, contact your assigned ISSS advisor immediately.

J-1 Scholar Out of Country Program Activity

The SEVIS “Out of Country” feature permits J-1 research scholars and professors to travel outside the U.S. for more than 30 days. However, they must obtain special authorization to uphold active J-1 status during this period. To seek approval from ISSS, individuals must submit the “Out of Country Authorization form” via the ISSS Portal, along with a department approval letter. The SEVIS record and  DS-2019 will remain active if the professor/scholar continues their J-1 program activities during the absence.

Process to request Continuing Program Out-of-Country Authorization

Login to the ISSS Portal and click “search online requests,” and then “J-1 Scholars” to access the Out-of-Country Reporting form and following instructions to submit the form.

Responsibilities of the Exchange Visitor while outside the U.S.

  • Maintain status and comply with the regulations of the Exchange Visitor Program
  • Communicate with department administrator if there are any changes in purpose, activities, or dates from the approval letter
  • Maintain required health insurance
  • The J-2 dependents are not eligible to remain in the U.S. when J-1 research scholar/professor will be out of the country.

The DS-2019 and SEVIS record will be terminated if the exchange visitor fails to maintain status.

 

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