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Maintaining J-1 Exchange Visitor Status

Even if a J-1 Exchange Visitor arrived in the U.S. in valid status, failure to comply with immigration laws and regulations while in the U.S. can result in a loss of the J-1 status and have very serious legal consequences.  As a J-1 exchange visitor, it is your responsibility to maintain your immigration status throughout the duration of your J-1 program. Below is a list of general requirements that ALL international scholars must follow in order to maintain their status.
 
1. Report change of address, U.S. phone number & email

2. Maintain J program objective

  • Your legal J-1 visa/immigration status is only valid as long as you are maintaining your appointment with UC Merced and are engaging in research and/or teaching at UC Merced as noted on your Form DS-2019.

3. Do not accept any unauthorized employment

  • J-1 Exchange Visitors are only allowed to receive payment as specifically noted on the Form DS-2019 unless given prior written authorization from the J Exchange Visitor program sponsor.
  • For detailed information, see our Off-campus Payment Authorization page.

4. Keep documents valid and accurate

  • Extending Program: Contact your department prior to the end date on your Form DS-2019. Your department must submit a J extension request to the Office of International Affairs. Please note that you must receive your extended Form DS-2019 prior to the end date of your current DS-2019 to ensure a continuation of your legal visa/immigration status and to avoid accruing unlawful presence.
  • Keep your passport valid: Contact your home country embassy or consulate should your passport require renewal.

5. Get a travel endorsement and understand your travel documents

  • Before any international travel, ensure you will have the necessary travel documents for your return and obtain a travel signature from the Office of International Affairs if needed. We generally recommend that the signature be current within 10 months of your re-entry date.

6. Understand your grace period after completion

The Department of Homeland Security allows Exchange Visitors an additional period of 30 days following the end date of their Form DS-2019 to prepare for departure:

  • CANNOT extend J program during the 30-day grace period.
  • CANNOT conduct research/teach/work or get paid during the 30-day grace period.
  • CANNOT transfer during the 30-day grace period.

7. Report early departure

  • J-1 scholars must inform both the host department and the Office of International Affairs if they will be ending their program more than 15 days before the end date of the Form DS-2019.

8. Maintain health insurance

  • You, and your J-2 dependents, must maintain health insurance coverage that meets J-1 federal guidelines for the entire length of your program.
  • For resources and requirements, please see our Health Insurance page.