Back to Table of Content Headings
Maintaining Legal J-1 Status
Employment J-1 scholars may be employed to conduct research or teach only at Washington State University unless specifically authorized ahead of time by OISS to give a lecture or consult at another institution.
Extension of J-1 exchange program/DS-2019 Host departments can request extensions for their scholars up to the maximum time limit allowed for their specific category as long as: • Sufficient funding for the additional period exists. • The extension is approved by SEVIS on or before the Program End Date on the DS-2019. Short Term Scholars are limited to a total of 6 months stay in the U.S.. Research Scholar and Professor categories are limited to a period of 5 years (not aggregate). E-mail/contact the International Scholar Advisor to obtain an Extension Request Form. OISS will mail the new, updated DS-2019 to the host department for distribution to the scholar, and fax a copy to Payroll Services and HRS (in the case of an employee).
Transferring to other institution J-1 scholars are eligible to transfer to other institutions without ending their current SEVIS record provided their exchange activity and J-1 category remain the same. Special procedures apply to transferring and it is best to contact the International Scholar Advisor regarding a transfer as soon as possible.
Travel/Extended Absences J-1 scholars are eligible to travel outside and return to the U.S. before the end of their “program end date” with certain conditions. OISS discourages absences of more than 30 days without an expressed pre-arrangement by the host department. For more travel information see: http://www.ip.wsu.edu/oiss/faculty-and-scholars/J-1-scholars/travel.shtml.
Violating Status OISS is required to terminate the SEVIS record for any scholar determined to be in violation of their J-1 status (e.g.: engaging in unauthorized employment, willfully failing to obtain required health insurance, refusal to participate in their exchange activity). Reinstatement or initiation of a new J-1 program (if applicable) is required to re-gain lawful J-1 or J-2 status. Loss of status results in the loss of all benefits including employment and could result in expulsion from the U.S. Contact the International Scholar Advisor for help.
Page Updated: April 22, 2008