How do I maintain my J-1 student status?
- Check in with OISS when you arrive in the U.S. and receive approval email
- Keep a valid passport
- Register for a full course of study
- Do not work on or off campus without prior authorization from OISS
- Notify OISS of any change in your address
If you are unsure about any of the above, please make an appointment with your OISS adviser as soon as possible.
What is 212 (e) - Two-Year Home Country Residency Requirement
The Two-Year Home Residency Requirement is often referred as the 212(e). Only the U.S. Department of State can determine if an exchange visitor and/or their dependent is subject to 212(e). If subject, an exchange visitor must physically reside within their last country of legal permanent residence for two years before they may return to the U.S. in H-1B, L, or K status, or as a Permanent Resident. If subject, J-1 exchange visitors are unable to apply for a change of status within the USA. Being "subject" to this regulation does not prevent a visitor from returning to the U.S. in another visa status, such as F-1 (student), B1/B2 (tourist/business) or under the visa waiver program.
There are three reasons a J-1 exchange visitor may be subject to 212(e):
- The J-1 program is funded in part or wholly by the United States government, the visitor's government, or an international organization.
- The J-1 program is engaged in one or more of the skills listed on the Exchange Visitor Skills List for their country.
- The J-1 exchange visitor is receiving graduate medical education or training.
For more information on J-1 two-year requirement, visit the Department of State website.
Can I extend my DS-2019?
Yes, it is possible for exchange visitors to request an extension of their DS-2019. The extension must be requested by email to your OISS advisor with supporting documentation before your program end date.
How can I work and where?
All Exchange Visitors must request work authorization before beginning any on or off-campus work. Please see work authorization details.
What if I'm not getting paid for the work?
Even if you are not getting paid, you must have the appropriate employment authorization first. Employment is determined by your activity, regardless of payment, so even unpaid work may count as employment. Check with your OISS advisor before starting any activity involving practical experience.
How do I get a Social Security Number?
Information on eligibility requirements and how to apply for a Social Security Number are available here.
How far in advance should I request a document, letter, or travel signature from OISS?
You should submit your request at least one week in advance. While the turnover time is normally quicker, this will ensure that you receive your document on time. DO NOT WAIT until the day or the day before you travel to request documents. If you do so, your document may not be prepared before you leave. J-1 student exchange visitor travel signatures are valid for one year from the signature date. Studying is not permitted.
Can I use my ESTA to enter the US in J-1 status?
Studying is not permitted on an ESTA, and you may not use ESTA to enter the US to begin your Exchange Program. You should enter the USD with your J-1 visa, up to 30 days prior to the start of your program (as it appears on your DS-2019).
As a J-1 Exchange Visitor, you may not re-enter the US using your J-1 visa during the 30-day grace period following your program end date. If you wish to depart and re-enter the US after the completion of your program, you may only do so using another immigration status such as B-1/2 or ESTA.
I want to add a dependent but I'm already in the U.S. What should I do?
Please note you will have to show you have financial support for your dependent for the entire program length before a new DS-2019 is issued. Currently, you will have to show $5000 USD for a spouse and $3000 USD per child. OISS will also require a copy of your dependent's passport, which must be valid for at least 6 months into the future.
Someone is coming to visit me. Can OISS help this person obtain a visa?
OISS can only issue immigration documents to students or employees of Tulane and their spouse or child dependents.
Can I study abroad if I'm an international student?
Yes, you can. Please contact the Office of Study Abroad for program information, and be sure to speak with an adviser at OISS before you start your program to ensure that you will not be out of status during your time abroad.
I've gotten married. What are my next steps?
Congratulations! If your spouse is not a U.S. citizen, you will need to request a dependent DS-2019 (J-2). If your spouse is currently in the U.S. on their own visa, they will need to process a change of status form as well if they want to be your dependent. If your name has changed due to marriage, please update your passport to reflect the change. Once your passport is updated, OISS will change the name on your DS-2019. For any other situation, please make an appointment to see your adviser at OISS. Please see our Family Support page for additional resources.
I've had a baby. What are my next steps?
If your child is a U.S. citizen, they will not need a DS-2019. If your child is not a U.S. citizen, you will have to request a dependent DS-2019. You will have to show you have financial support for your dependent before a new DS-2019 can be issued, in the amount of $3000 per child and $5000 for a spouse. OISS also requires a copy of the passport information page for all dependents. You will also have to show proof of funding for health insurance. Please see our Family Support page for additional resources.
