Maintaining Short-Term Scholar Status
Federal Immigration regulations in the United States are taken very seriously, and it is critical that short-term scholars in J-1 visa classification maintain their legal status in the country. To maintain your legal status, make sure you're aware of and comply fully with the requirements set forth by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the Department of State (DOS).
You can learn more about these regulations on this page. However, you can also refer to the Department of Homeland Security's website and the U.S. Department of State website for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Reporting Requirements
As a J-1 visa holder, there are a few reporting requirements you must follow:
- Attend a scholar orientation with ISSS shortly after arrival in the U.S.
- Notify ISSS of any changes to your residential address within 10 days of any move
- Provide ISSS with your U.S. phone number or any changes of within 10 days
- Notify ISSS if you intend to finish your program early
Additional Requirements
To maintain your status as J-1 visa holder at OHIO, you must meet additional requirements and abide by set rules. Failure to adhere to federal rules and regulations may result in the loss of legal status.
Health Insurance
All J visa holders, including J-1 scholars and any J-2 dependents, are required to carry certain levels of health insurance for the entire duration of their program. Willful failure to carry appropriate insurance is considered a violation of the J-1 visa rules, which can result in loss of legal status.
The ISSS team must receive proof of your appropriate health insurance coverage before we can report your initial arrival to the government. We must report your arrival within 30 days of the start date printed on your DS-2019, so please be prepared to present proof of insurance upon your arrival to the U.S.
Please read through the health insurance page thoroughly to gain a better understanding of this requirement. It is important to note that not every insurance policy will meet the requirements set by J visa rules.
Employment
During your time in the U.S., you only have permission to perform the work that was outlined in your invitation letter. Outside employment is not permitted. Working without proper authorization is considered a serious violation of the J-1 visa, and can result in loss of legal status.
You can learn more about maintaining J-1 status and employment on the J-1 student employment page.
Travel
To travel outside of the U.S. during your program, you must request a travel signature from the ISSS team at least two weeks before your trip. To obtain a travel signature, please bring your DS-2019 form (and forms for any dependents who will travel with you) to the ISSS office.
Aside from our signature, you need a valid J-1 (J-2 for dependents) visa stamp. If your visa stamp has expired, you must apply for a new visa stamp while you are abroad, as it is not possible to renew a visa from within the U.S.
You can learn more about traveling with a J-1 Visa on the J-1 student travel page.
Extension of Program
The J program for Short-term Scholars can only be extended to a maximum of 6 months. It is essential that ISSS receive the complete extension request at least two weeks before your current program expires.
How To Request an Extension
The extension request must be initiated by your host department. You cannot independently request an extension. They can begin by completing the Recommendation for J-1 Program Extension form.
Required Financial Documentation
As part of the extension request, you must provide financial documentation to demonstrate that you can cover the living expenses for yourself and any dependents for the duration of the extension. Details about the amount to be documented, and the types of documentation that are acceptable, can be found on the extension request form available on .
End of Program
Following the end of your J-1 program (as indicated on your most recent DS-2019 form) you have a 30-day grace period. During this time you may remain in the U.S., but you cannot continue your work. You must depart the U.S. by the 30th day.