Exchange Visitor (J-Visa) Regulations Handbook

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1 Exchange Visitor (J-Visa) Regulations Handbook Office of International Affairs Student Success Center, Room 0300 Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, IL

2 Contents INTRODUCTION... 5 BASIC J-1 VISA TERMINOLOGIES... 9 SEVIS (Student Exchange Visitor Information System)... 9 Department of Homeland Security (DHS)... 9 U.S. J-1 Visa... 9 I-94 Admission Record DS-2019 Form DS-2019 Extension Transfer of J-1 Status Travel Abroad Automatic Visa Revalidation for EVs Two-Year Home Country Residence Requirement PRE-ARRIVAL INFORMATION SEVIS Fee Apply for a J-1 Visa at a US Embassy/Consulate Attend Your Visa Interview Tips for the Visa Interview Entering the U.S Department of State Exchange Visitor Program Welcome Brochure MAINTAINING J-1 STATUS Mandatory Check-in (validation of arrival) Valid DS2019 Form Valid Passport

3 Health Insurance Address Reporting Enrollment (Students Only) Reduced Course Load (Students Only) EMPLOYMENT Employment for Scholars EMPLOYMENT FOR DEGREE-SEEKING STUDENTS On-Campus Employment Employment for J-2 (Dependents) Social Security Number (SSN) COMPLETION OF PROGRAM LIVING IN THE UNITED STATES Housing COSTS ARRIVAL TO SIUE YOUR FIRST WEEK CHECKLIST TRANSPORTATION IN AND AROUND SIUE Madison County Transit (bus) Driving in the United States Buying a Car Campus Parking OPENING A US BANK ACCOUNT Some Local Banks ABOUT EDWARDSVILLE AND SIUE TRAVELING OUT OF TOWN CLIMATE

4 ACCESSING HEALTHCARE CALLING FOR EMERGENCY ASSISTANCE KNOW YOUR RIGHTS Wilberforce Trafficking Victims Protection Reauthorization Act Avoid Immigration Scams

5 INTRODUCTION Welcome to Southern Illinois University Edwardsville! The Exchange Visitor or EV (J-1 Visa) Program was established by the U.S. Government to promote participation in Educational and Cultural programs by facilitating the visit of international scholars to the U.S. The objective of the program is to increase mutual understanding between the citizens of the U.S. and the Exchange Visitors country. The EV may study, conduct research, teach, or receive training. Universities, research institutes, and organizations can be recognized by the U.S. Department of State as Exchange Visitor Program Sponsors. SIUE is committed to internationalization of its campus and recognizes the strategic advantage of supporting international collaborations between SIUE faculty and students with faculty and students from international universities. The Office of International Affairs receives inquiries from SIUE faculty members who wish to host scholars on campus to carry out joint research, teaching or engage in special short-term programs. The Office of International Affairs also establishes international partnerships with universities to increase SIUE s global reach by bringing exchange students to campus for short-term study and sending SIUE students to our partner institutions to benefit from academic study abroad. SIUE believes in the importance of better understanding and improved communications between people of the United States and other national of the world through international educational and cultural exchange. The vision of Southern Illinois University Edwardsville is to achieve greater national and global recognition and academic prominence through innovative and interdisciplinary programs that empower individuals to achieve their full potential. International education and cultural exchange are integral components of how SIUE endeavors for this vision. SIUE s values include citizenship social civil and political responsibility, globally, nationally, locally and within the University. Inclusion is a stated value where the University strives to create a learning environment and graduates who are open to the rich diversity of humankind and have respect for individuals, differences and cultures. 5

6 Office of International Affairs The Office of International Affairs at SIUE is responsible for administration of the Exchange Visitor Program. This handbook provides important information about your immigration status and practical information for adjusting to life in the United States, specifically, Edwardsville, Illinois. We hope you find this information helpful. We look forward to welcoming you to campus soon and working with you to further your academic goals and involve you on campus to further intercultural understanding. Student Success Center, Southern Illinois University Edwardsville Room 0300 Box 1616 Edwardsville, IL Phone: Fax: Mary Weishaar Exchange Visitor Responsible Officer Executive Director, International Affairs 6

7 Exchange Visitor Categories Exchange Visitors (EVs) are granted the J-1 visa by their program sponsors. Accompanying dependents (spouse and unmarried children of 21 years of age or younger) will receive the J-2 visa status. As an EV, you fall into one of the following categories. Scholars and departments must seriously consider which category is most appropriate for the needs of the department and the long-term plans of the scholar. If there are questions, you and/or the sponsoring faculty member should carefully coordinate with International Affairs to select the correct J-1 category for the intended activities. Specialist Short-Term Scholar Researcher Professor Non-degree student Student Maximum duration 12 months Maximum duration 6 months Maximum duration 60 months Maximum duration 60 months Maximum duration 24 months Maximum duration dependent on enrollment in a degree program 1. Specialist Experts in a field of specialized knowledge who visit the U.S. for the purpose of observing, consulting or demonstrating their special skills. Short-term scholars, Research Scholars and Professors are not considered Specialists for the purpose of this category. Maximum length of stay under this category is 12 months. 2. Short-term Scholar Visitors who come to SIUE for research, teaching and related academic activity for a period of six months or less. Maximum length of stay under this category is 6 months. If a scholar plans to conduct research or teach for a six-month or shorter period of time, they should use the Short-Term Scholar category. Once the scholar completes their stay, there is no possibility to extend their program and they must depart the U.S. within the 30-day grace period. However, they have no time-bar to re-enter the U.S. in another J category should a new appointment be offered later at SIUE or another institution. 3. Researcher / Professor Visitors who come to SIUE for research, teaching and related academic activity for a period lasting longer than six months. Maximum length of stay under this category is 5 years. 7

8 The five-year period is not an aggregate of five years. It is a continuous five-year period given to a participant on a use or lose basis. In order to take advantage of the full five-year period, Research Scholars and/or Professors must have a continuous academic appointment, at SIUE. Scholars must maintain J-1 immigration status, and they must have a continuous record in the Student and Exchange Visitor System (SEVIS). Scholars who leave the U.S. to return to their home country to conduct research or to resume a teaching position, but plan to continue with their J-1 program, must be able to document this ongoing relationship. Usually, a break in the research or teaching activity of 30 days or more requires termination of J-1 sponsorship, but there are case-by-case exceptions. When the scholar leaves for more than 30 days, all of their dependents must also depart the country with the Scholar. The SIUE International Admissions office issues the Form DS-2019 only to cover periods of time that coincide with the current academic appointment. 4. Non-Degree Students A student visiting SIUE for a prescribed program of academic activity which does not lead to a degree from SIUE. Maximum length of stay under this category is 2 years. Non-Degree students usually are nominated for study for one or two semesters by partner institutions that have a Memorandum of Understanding with SIUE. 5. Degree Students Students who will be admitted for a degree program at SIUE are authorized to be on J-1 visa status as long as they are in full time status and maintain satisfactory advancement towards completion of the degree as well as through any approved academic training period immediately following completion of the degree program. 8

9 BASIC J-1 VISA TERMINOLOGIES SEVIS (Student Exchange Visitor Information System) Federal government database that maintains and tracks information on F-1 and J-1 visa students and scholars. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) The Department of Homeland Security oversees three agencies: 1. United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is responsible for citizenship, asylum, lawful permanent residency, employment authorization, refugee status, intercountry adoptions, replacement immigration documents, family and employment immigration related, and foreign student work authorization. 2. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is responsible for immigration investigations, detention, removal, intelligence, and SEVIS. 3. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is responsible for immigration inspections at U.S. Ports of entry, border patrol, and custom services. U.S. J-1 Visa All J-1 visa holders are referred to as an Exchange Visitor (EV). A J-1 visa is a computergenerated entry permit that is issued by the U.S. Embassy or Consulate abroad for you to enter the U.S. to begin your studies or research. The only time you are required to have a valid visa is when you are entering the U.S. from another country. For more information about visa applications please visit the U.S. Department of State at You can stay in the U.S. on an expired J-1 visa as long as you have maintained your valid J-1 exchange visitor status (DS2019). 9

10 I-94 Admission Record The I-94 Admission Record, issued by Customs and Border Protection, documents your arrival and lawful entry to the U.S. The I-94 Admission Record could be issued either electronically or as a paper card. If you were issued an electronic I-94 Admission Record, you may retrieve and print a copy of your record from the CBP website: Your I-94 Admission record should indicate your admission to the U.S. for the duration of status, abbreviated as D/S, which stands for the period that a J-1 Exchange Visitor will be participating in their research or studies. The I-94 Admission Record is required to request state and federal benefits, such as a Social Security Number (SSN) or Driver License. DS-2019 Form You receive the DS2019 form from SIUE after you are invited to the University. You need to present this form to the U.S. embassy or consulate in your home country to apply for your J-1 Visa. This form contains your study/research information such as field of research, start and end date of the program participation, and other personal information relevant to your J-1 status. You must have an original DS2019 at the visa interview and at the U.S. Port of Entry. DS-2019 Extension In order to extend your duration of stay for further research or study, you must request an extension of your DS2019 with an International Advisor at SIUE at least 30 days before it expires. Failure to apply for DS2019 extension in a timely manner will result in termination of your J-1 status. You cannot extend beyond the maximum duration of your EV category. Transfer of J-1 Status This option enables you to transfer to SIUE or another institution to continue a program (study, research, or teaching) in the U.S. You may transfer if: 10

11 a. the J-1 visa category (student or scholar) will not change. b. time spent, both at SIUE and the previous/future institution, will not exceed the length of time allowed for the respective J-1 Visa category, and c. the Responsible Officer at the current institution approves the transfer. Please contact ISS for further details regarding transfers. Travel Abroad To re-enter the U.S. after a trip abroad, you must present the following documents at the Port of Entry: 1. Valid passport (for at least 6 months) 2. Valid J-1 visa If you do not have such a visa in the passport or your last visa will be expired at the time of re-entry to the U.S., you must obtain a new J-1 visa from the U.S. consulate or the embassy (preferably in your home country) before driving in or boarding a flight to the U.S. 3. Valid DS2019 endorsed for travel by ISS (each signature is valid for one year). Contact ISS on how to obtain the travel validation signature. Automatic Visa Revalidation for EVs Automatic Visa Revalidation allows J-1 holders to enter the U.S. from Canada, Mexico, or one of the adjacent islands to the U.S. (other than Cuba) on an expired J-1 visa if the trip is not exceeding 30 days. However, you must have a valid DS2019 endorsed for travel by ISS, valid passport, and an expired J-1 visa stamp. If you meet one of the following criteria, you will NOT be able to use automatic revalidation rule. You applied for a new J-1 visa while being out of the U.S. and it has not been issued. 11

12 You applied for a new J-1 visa and was denied. You have a terminated or completed SEVIS record. You have been out of the U.S. for more than 30 days. You are a citizen from one of the following countries: o Cuba o Iran o Sudan o Syria Two-Year Home Country Residence Requirement This is a condition that applies to some Exchange Visitors (EVs) who obtain J visa status under the following circumstances: a. the Exchange Visitor received full or partial funds from the U.S. government, his/her own government, or an international organization funded by government; b. the education, training, or skills that the Exchange Visitor is pursuing in the U.S. appear on the Exchange Visitor Skills List for his/her legal country of residence published by the Department of State. c. Foreign medical graduates receiving training in the U.S. under the sponsorship of the Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG). EVs who become subject to the Two-year Home Residence Requirement are not eligible to change their visa status from J-1 to H (temporary worker), L (intra-company transferee), or an immigrant visa ("green card"), unless they return and reside in the country of their last permanent residence for two years after completing their programs in the U.S. EVs who become subject, but do not wish to comply with the residence requirement may apply for a waiver from the U.S. Department of State during or after the completion of the program. Note: Information and guidelines are available at International Affairs will not be involved with the process of waiver application of EVs in any form. If an EV s waiver application is approved by the Department of State or USCIS, ISS will no longer issue a DS extension or transfer for a current EV. 12

13 PRE-ARRIVAL INFORMATION In order to apply for a J-1 visa at a US Embassy/Consulate, you must first obtain the original form DS-2019 Certificate of Eligibility for Exchange Visitor (J-1) Status. This form will be mailed to you by your SIUE faculty sponsor or our office will make arrangements for you to prepay for a mailing label. SEVIS Fee After receiving the form DS-2019, you must pay a mandatory one-time SEVIS fee of $180 and obtain a receipt PRIOR to booking your visa appointment at the US Embassy/Consulate. This fee may be paid online at The Department of Homeland Security will issue you an official paper receipt (Form I-797) acknowledging the payment of your SEVIS fee. Who must pay the SEVIS fee? Persons applying for a J-1 visa at a US Embassy/Consulate abroad for initial participation as an exchange visitor; Citizens of Canada or Bermuda who are applying for J-1 admission at a US port-of-entry; Persons who are in the US in another nonimmigrant status and who are changing status to J-1. Who does NOT have to pay the SEVIS fee? J-2 dependents; A person who paid an initial SEVIS fee when seeking a J-1 visa from a US Embassy/Consulate, was denied a visa and is applying again for a visa in the same J-1 exchange visitor category within 12 months of the visa denial; 13

14 A J-1 exchange visitor applying for a visa to return to the US as a continuing participant of an exchange visitor program (this applies only to J-1 s returning to the US to resume participation in a program that began previously, in which s/he has maintained status, and which has not been completed); A J-1 exchange visitor transferring to SIUE in the same exchange visitor category A J-1 exchange visitor applying for an extension of stay in the same program. Apply for a J-1 Visa at a US Embassy/Consulate Schedule an appointment for a visa interview at an Embassy/Consulate in your home country. An in-person interview is usually required. You will be asked to present your DS-2019 document, SEVIS fee receipt and proof of funding. Other specific documentation may vary depending on your home country, so please check with your particular Embassy/Consulate prior to your interview to make certain you have all necessary documentation. As all visa applications undergo a security background check, it may take some time to process your application. Therefore, you should apply as soon as possible. Documents needed at time of visa interview A valid, unexpired passport (must be valid for at least 6 months beyond intended stay) DS-2019 issued by SIUE Form I-797 SEVIS fee receipt Department of State Form DS-160 Nonimmigrant Visa Application. Online visa application can be found here: Original financial documentation One passport-style photograph Nonimmigrant Visa Processing Fee of $160. Depending upon the arrangement between your country and the US, you may also need to pay an additional visa issuance fee. Please check with your Embassy/Consulate for details. Citizens of Canada and Bermuda do not need to apply for an entry visa 14

15 Additional Documentation May Be Required Review the instructions for how to apply for a visa on the website of the embassy or consulate where you will apply. Additional documents may be requested to establish if you are qualified. For example, additional requested documents may include evidence of: The purpose of your travel; Your intent to depart the United States after your travel; Your ability to pay all travel costs; and/or Other documents the consular officer may request. Evidence of your employment and/or your family ties may be sufficient to show the purpose of your travel and your intent to return to your home country. If you cannot cover all the costs for your travel, you may show evidence that another person will cover some or all costs for your travel. Attend Your Visa Interview During your visa interview, a consular officer will determine whether you are qualified to receive a visa, and if so, which visa category is appropriate based on your purpose of travel. You will need to establish that you meet the requirements under U.S. law to receive the category of visa for which you are applying. Ink-free, digital fingerprint scans will be taken as part of your application process. They are usually taken during your interview, but this varies based on location. After your visa interview, your application may require further administrative processing. You will be informed by the consular officer if further processing is necessary for your application. When the visa is approved, you will be informed how your passport with visa will be returned to you. 15

16 Tips for the Visa Interview 1. Show Ties to Your Home Country Under US law, all applicants for non-immigrant visas are viewed as intending immigrants until they can convince the consular officer that they are not. You must therefore be able to show that you have reasons for returning to your home country that are stronger than those for remaining in the United States. Ties to your home country are things that bind you to your hometown, homeland, or current place of residence: job, family, financial prospects that you own or will inherit, investment, etc. Each situation is different, of course, and there in no magic explanation or single document, certificate, or letter, that can guarantee visa issuance. 2. English Anticipate that the interview will be conducted in English, not in your native language. One suggestion is to practice English conversation with a native speaker before the interview. The Exchange Visitor Program requires English proficiency so that you can engage in cultural exchange during your program. 3. Know Your Program Be able to explain the purpose of your Exchange Visitor program. 4. Bring Supplemental Documentation It should be clear at a glance to the consular officer what written documents you are presenting and what they signify. You should bring original bank statements showing financial resources to fund your stay. 5. Maintain a Positive Attitude Do not engage the consular office in an argument. If you are denied a visa, ask the office for a list of the documents she or he would suggest you bring to overcome the refusal. Try to get a written explanation of why you were denied. Entering the U.S. A visa allows a foreign citizen to travel to a U.S. port-of-entry (generally an airport) and request permission to enter the United States. A visa does not guarantee entry into the United States. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS), U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officials at the port of entry have authority to permit or deny admission to the United States. If 16

17 you are allowed to enter the United States, the CBP official will provide an admission stamp or paper Form I-94, Arrival/Departure Record. Learn more on the CBP website. Learn more about procedures for exchange visitors (with J visas) entering the United States on the CBP website under Arrival Procedures for Students or Exchange Visitors. For more about admissions, as well as restrictions about bringing food, agricultural products, and other restricted/prohibited goods, by reviewing the CBP website under International Visitors and Clearing CBP. Exchange visitors are not permitted to enter the United States earlier than 30 days before their program start dates. If you will arrive more than two weeks after the start date listed on your DS-2019, the start date must be amended. Please inform your departmental contact person of your delay, so an amended DS-2019 can be issued if necessary. If you have already paid the SEVIS fee and obtained a visa, you should not need to do so again simply because the DS-2019 dates were amended. Additional Information: Exchange visitors have an additional 30 days after the program end date listed on Form DS-2019 for domestic travel in the United States and/or to prepare for and depart the United States. 17

18 Department of State Exchange Visitor Program Welcome Brochure Following is a link to the official Exchange Visitor Program Welcome Brochure. It may provide you with additional information as you prepare for your trip to the U.S. Program.pdf Contacting the Department of State The Exchange Visitor Program is administered under the oversight of the Deputy Assistant Secretary for Private Sector Exchange, Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA). Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs U.S. Department of State State Annex SA-5, Fifth Floor Washington, DC Report Abuse or Exploitation If you are mistreated and/or your rights are violated, and your sponsor is not providing the help you need, contact the Department of State for assistance: J-1 Visa Emergency Hotline: * This line is for use by exchange visitors and third parties in the case of urgent situations. *A Department of State representative is available 24 hours a day. Regular Communications or questions: jvisas@state.gov. This address is to communicate non-emergency issues, questions, and concerns. 18

19 MAINTAINING J-1 STATUS Mandatory Check-in (validation of arrival) As a newly admitted SIUE J-1 scholar/student, your arrival must be updated in SEVIS. This process is called validation and must be completed within 30 days after the starting date stated on Box #3 on the DS2019 form. In order to do this, you are required to check-in with International Affairs at SIUE (Student Success Center, Room 0300) upon arrival to SIUE. Failure to validate your arrival will result in automatic termination of your J-1 EV status in the SEVIS system. You are required to bring the following documents to ISS: Original DS-2019 and original passport (For J1 and J2 dependents) Original J-1 Visa (except Canadian citizens) ISS Staff will have you complete paperwork indicating your address, phone number and emergency contact in her home country. Please bring this information with you. You will be required to purchase Health Insurance through the SIUE Health Service Office and submit proof of coverage to ISS before your SEVIS record will be validated. Visiting scholars are strongly encouraged to purchase SIUE health insurance before you leave your home country. Information follows on how to make this purchase online. Valid DS2019 Form The DS2019 must be valid at all times. If you plan on extending your stay, you must apply for an extension of stay at least 30 days prior to the expiration date of your DS2019. Valid Passport Passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the validity of the DS2019 form. 19

20 Health Insurance U.S. Department of State regulations require that you as a J-1 exchange visitor obtain health, accident, medical evacuation and repatriation of remains insurance. The insurance policies must cover you and all accompanying dependents for your entire duration in the U.S. starting with the date of arrival and ending with the date of departure. Any exchange visitor who willfully refuses to comply with this requirement shall be considered to be in violation of his/her exchange visitor status. The program sponsor is obligated to inform the United States Department of State of the exchange visitor's noncompliance. J1 students who are enrolled in classes at SIUE will automatically be enrolled in the SIUEapproved health insurance plan and will be billed for charges on their SIUE bill. J1 Scholars will be required to purchase Visit Insurance through the SIUE Health Service Office prior to arrival at SIUE. Purchasing Insurance Prior to Arrival at SIUE required for Scholars on J1 visas International visitors in the J1 visa category* are required to carry health insurance for themselves and their dependents for the duration of their program. Medical costs are very expensive in the United States and SIUE must ensure you have coverage from the moment you arrive in the United States. *J1 students enrolled in classes are automatically enrolled in the student health insurance plan. If you are a visiting scholar, you are required to purchase insurance through an SIUEapproved provider before you leave your home country. Instructions are below: 1. Go to 2. Click on Quote and Buy Online. 20

21 3. Click on Plan E Plus. (This is the required plan.) 4. Scroll down to the middle of the page and click on Quote and Buy Online. 5. Enter Residence Country (use United States and then enter the state where you will live), Coverage Start and End Date, Number of Insureds, Dependents and their age, and the age of insured. 6. Click on Get Quote. 7. You can choose to select or decline Hazardous Sports Coverage. 8. Next, you can choose which deductible you would like. The recommended amount is $250 deductible but you can choose which one you would prefer. 9. Next, you can choose the Medical Maximum amount. The recommended amount is $100,000). 10. Click on Buy. 11. Complete next page of information. (Please use the address where you will be living in the United States). 12. Check the box by Checking this box serves as my signature. 13. Enter your credit card information and click Finish a copy of your insurance confirmation to Sandra Tamari at satamar@siue.edu Plan E Plus does not include maternity coverage. If you need maternity coverage, please review and select a different plan. If you have questions, please contact Ann Decker SIUE, Office Support Associate, Counseling and Health Services, (618) anweyha@siue.edu 21

22 Address Reporting In compliance with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS), you are required to have a valid address during your studies/research. DHS may terminate your immigration status automatically if you do not maintain your address information with SIUE in this proper format. While you are holding a SIUE-sponsored J-1 visa, you are required to provide the University the following addresses and, if a student, keep them up to date through CougarNet (for students) and by ing iss@siue.edu (for scholars). 1. Mailing and Billing address: is used as your local U.S. address for immigration purposes. This is where you are residing while SIUE is the sponsor of your visa. This address cannot be your home country address, out of state address, department address, office or post office box. 2. Permanent address: address in your home country. This address cannot be a U.S. address or a post office box. International Affairs will update the SEVIS system with your address. 22

23 Enrollment (Students Only) To maintain your J-1 status, you are required to pursue a full course of study and make normal academic progress towards completion of your degree program. Undergraduate students are required to register for a minimum of 12 credit hours each fall and spring semester. Graduate students must be registered for a minimum of 9 credit hours each fall and spring semester. Summer enrollment is optional unless it is the first semester of enrollment at SIUE. Reduced Course Load (Students Only) J-1 students may take less than the required units for the following reasons and have prior approval by ISS to take below full time enrollment: 1. Academic Difficulty (this reason can only be used one semester per degree program at SIUE) 2. Illness or medical condition (students must include letter from a medical professional) 3. Final Semester of graduation. 23

24 EMPLOYMENT Employment for Scholars Employment for monetary remuneration of Visiting Scholars/Professors is limited to occasional lectures and short-term consultations incidental to the exchange visitor's primary program activity. For EVs whose DS-2019 form is issued by SIUE, the authorization to engage in employment must be granted by ISS. The scholar may only start the employment only after ISS has authorized employment. Before ISS can authorize employment, the scholar must bring the job offer letter and a letter from the sponsoring professor explaining how this employment meets the following criteria: 1. Be directly related to the objectives of the exchange visitor's program; 2. Be incidental to the exchange visitor's primary program activities; and 3. Not delay the completion date of the exchange visitor's program. Acceptance of employment with an organization or institution other than the visa sponsor without written authorization is a violation of the EV s visa status and deems him/her subject to termination from participation in the exchange visitor program. Contact ISS for specific procedures on how to obtain employment authorization. EMPLOYMENT FOR DEGREE-SEEKING STUDENTS On-Campus Employment Students who are pursuing degrees on J-1 status may work on campus part time (up to 20 hours per week). In order to obtain employment, students must be in good academic standing and apply for a Social Security Number. Non-degree J1 students are not eligible for employment at SIUE. Academic Training SIUE Degree students and exchange students on J-1 visa have the opportunity to engage in paid or unpaid employment which is directly related to their major field of study, during or after completion of their studies, provided certain requirements are met. Such employment is termed Academic Training and is authorized in writing by the student s visa sponsor, e.g. the school or organization issuing the DS-2019 form. 24

25 1. Academic Training may be taken: a. after maintaining valid J-1 status for at least one academic year; and b. during your annual vacation (e.g. Summer break) if you are eligible and intend to register for the next term; or c. after completion of all course requirements if you are working on your thesis or dissertation; or d. upon graduation, but it may not start more than 30 days after. Procedures to apply are available at the ISS. Employment for J-2 (Dependents) All J-2 visa holders are eligible (subject to any existing labor regulations) to apply for a work permit in the U.S. The J-2 holder must apply for a work permit through USCIS. ISS is not involved in the J-2 work permit procedure, but you may use the following guidelines to help with the application process: J-2 Employment Guidelines Social Security Number (SSN) An SSN is a number ID which may be required at the time of employment and allows you to apply for a driver license, open a bank account, etc. EVs are eligible to receive an SSN with proper authorization from ISS. J-2 visa holders cannot obtain a number unless they have received an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) card from USCIS. 25

26 COMPLETION OF PROGRAM Upon completion of your program you do not need to inform our office of your departure unless you plan to leave earlier than 30 days prior to the expiration date on your DS2019. Grace Period Upon completion of your program you are allowed an additional 30-day grace period to prepare for your departure from the U.S. During this grace period, you are not allowed to work or study. Once you leave the country within these 30 days your visa automatically expires and you will not be able to re-enter the country to reclaim the rest of your grace period time. 26

27 LIVING IN THE UNITED STATES Housing The Office of International Affairs does not provide assistance with making housing arrangements. Below we outline options available to Exchange Visitors to assist with arranging housing prior to arrival to SIUE. On Campus Housing Exchange students studying at SIUE for one or two semesters are required to live on campus. Students will be assigned to Cougar Village, an apartment complex administered by SIUE Housing. Cougar Village apartments house between 2 and 4 single students who usually share a two-bedroom furnished unit. Each unit has a kitchen and common living room. Cougar Village is within walking distance of the academic buildings. In addition, year-round shuttle service is available to campus. In order to reserve space, you should contact University Housing as soon as possible to make arrangements. More information about on-campus housing and an online application are available at the University Housing website. To apply online, you will need an activated SIUE e-id and will be required to pay a $300 deposit to reserve your space. For information on housing, please see: Although residence hall rooms are furnished, you will need to bring some supplies with you or buy them after you arrive. The International Hospitality Program offers some gently used donated items to help new students get started. During international student orientation, International Programs will offer a shopping trip to Edwardsville so you can buy items you are unable to bring from home. Please note: University Housing requires a two-semester contract. If you move in at the start of fall semester, you are committed to staying in University Housing through spring semester. 27

28 Visiting Scholars with dependents may be able to live in Cougar Village Family Housing. Please contact Tracey Kane at to inquire on pricing and availability. J2 dependents are expected to reside with the J-1 Exchange Visitor. Off Campus Housing Accommodations available off-campus include furnished and unfurnished apartments, houses, townhomes, and single rooms within houses for rent. You can search the following resources for housing before you arrive. Edwardsville Intelligencer classified advertisements University Housing Off-campus website Tips for Locating Off-campus Housing Compare prices. Do not sign a lease until you have inspected the apartment, house, or room. Ask questions of former/current tenants or neighbors if possible. Check the deposit policy to see whether it is refundable. Landlords will not refund a deposit if the apartment needs major cleaning or repairs at the end of your rental term. Check lease duration. Most rental contracts are for 12 months. Negotiate the terms of the lease if you do not agree with all items. Get everything you agree on in writing. Read the entire lease before you sign it. Follow all terms of the contract you sign. Buy renter or property insurance (optional, but recommended). COSTS Exchange Visitors must be able to cover all expenses while they are participating in their EV program at SIUE. The cost of living in Edwardsville is moderate for the United States. However, the number of rental housing units in the town can drive the cost of short-term 28

29 housing up. It is best to arrange housing early so that appropriate accommodations can be located. SIUE does not charge any fees to host Exchange Visitors in the Research Professor or Short-Term Scholar categories. Students will be assessed tuition and fees based on the number of credit hours they are taking at SIUE at the out-of-state rate or a rate determined by a partnership agreement between SIUE and the student s home institution. Research Professors and Short-Term Scholars will be given access to the Student Fitness Center, the on-campus fitness facility, only after joining and paying a monthly fee. Students will have access to the Student Fitness Center through the fees they pay for classes. There is no fee for any EV to use labs or library facilities at SIUE. Budgeting While it is difficult to anticipate every cost associated with a stay at SIUE, here are some guidelines to help you plan for your program You will want to list all of your potential categories and amounts of expenses. If you are not sure what your expenses are, you might try tracking them for a week, a month, or more. Recording everything you spend can be a great way to determine areas to cut out. Use this list to help you think about all the possible expenses you may have: Tuition Rent/housing Meals (board) Health insurance Books/technology fees Transportation Communications Clothing/personal items Family expenses Personal expenses Recreation and travel Taxes 29

30 Plan for emergencies. Life can never be completely planned. If your car breaks down or you get sick, you ll be grateful that you have money saved up in case of emergency and you won t have to rely on credit. Save up for big expenses. If you re planning a spring break trip with your friends, or have your eye on a new couch for your apartment, you ll need to start saving up for that expense as soon as you know about it. You consider reworking your budget to attempt to increase the amount you save every month. Make sure your budget balances. Finally, total your income and your expenses, and make sure your budget balances. This means that you re not spending more than you re making. You want to either break even or (preferably) have some money left over. If your budget doesn t balance, you ll need to reduce your expenses and/or figure out a way to bring in more income. Here are some estimates for the cost of living in Edwardsville, IL Housing Food Insurance Transportation Personal Expenses Cell phone $500-$1000/month $400/month $100-$250/month $50-$500/month (bus to buying car) $100-$250/month $50-$100/month 30

31 ARRIVAL TO SIUE Exchange visitors arriving as a group may have their transportation arranged by their host department. All others will need to arrange their own transportation to SIUE. Airport Lambert-St. Louis International Airport (STL) is approximately 45 minutes from SIUE. It is the primary airport and all major airlines provide service to St. Louis. Getting from the Airport to SIUE Exchange Visitors are responsible for their own transportation from Lambert St. Louis Airport; SIUE does not offer airport pick-up services from the airport. However, there are a number of options to get to SIUE from the Lambert St. Louis Airport. Option 1: Elite Transportation Services is a reputable St. Louis region transportation company that has built a relationship with SIUE. Students should call Alex two days ahead of time to arrange a pick-up reservation. The cost is about $70 from Lambert St. Louis international airport to SIUE. After you schedule airport pick-up with Elite Transportation, a driver will meet you at the end of the concourse on the first floor, immediately before the baggage area. The driver will have a sign with your name on it. The driver will bring you to the campus in Edwardsville, Illinois. If there is a DELAY, FLIGHT CANCELLATION, or you MISS YOUR FLIGHT, contact Elite Transportation directly at (314) oralex@elitetransportation.us. Please note that if you arrange airport pick-up, you are responsible for paying for it whether or not use it. To make reservations please call (314) Additional information can be found at their website Option 2: Laclede Cab is a local taxi company in the St. Louis region. Students can also book their transportation through Laclede Cab. To make reservations please call (314) Additional information can be found at their website 31

32 YOUR FIRST WEEK CHECKLIST Check in with the Office of International Affairs: Bring your passport and DS-2019 to complete your immigration check-in at SIUE Attend mandatory orientation. Exchange visitors must arrange to attend a special session by ing your Exchange Visitor Coordinator, Mary Weishaar, mweisha@siue.edu. Orientation will cover important topics like how to remain in legal non-immigrant status, US customs and norms, how to navigate the university and get involved on campus. Get I-94 Number Online and print it: Go to Set up your campus account: Go online to Update your local address: You are required to update your mailing and billing address, phone and online through CougarNet. You must use a U.S. address for mailing and billing. Your immigration registration will not be complete until you have done so. Exchange Students: Meet your Academic Adviser and enroll in classes Pay your tuition and fees: Fees may be paid in full or in installments at the Office of the Bursar (Rendleman Hall, Room 1101 Phone: OR If a Third Party is paying your account, submit your Financial Guarantee to the Bursar s Office before the payment due dates, so classes do not get dropped. Get your SIUE I.D. card at the Service Center (Rendleman Hall, Room 1309 Phone: ) Students: You must be enrolled in classes to get your I.D. card. Visit the SIUE Health Services ( in the Student Success Center: Enrolled students must submit immunization records. Exchange visitors not enrolled in classes must purchase health insurance through Health Services that meets the minimum requirements of the Exchange Visitor Program. Get your books: Undergraduate students should take their student I.D. Card to Textbook Rental ( Graduate Students borrow books from the Library or purchase them on Amazon or at the University bookstore. Find Housing Accommodations: If you do not have permanent housing, visit SIUE Housing ( in Rendleman Hall, Basement Room 0224 or the Off Campus Housing Database ( Open a Bank Account Find the Local Bus Services: Check out the MCT Website ( 32

33 TRANSPORTATION IN AND AROUND SIUE Madison County Transit (bus) Madison Country Transit offers safe and affordable bus transportation to SIUE and the surrounding communities. More information about MCT can be found at their website or by calling Bus schedules can be found online or can be picked up at the Morris University Center Information Desk on the campus of SIUE. Driving in the United States Driver s License from Home Country & International Driving Permit (IDP) We recommend you bring both your driver s license from your home country and an International Driving Permit (IDP) if you plan to drive a car while studying in the U.S. Things to know: You cannot apply for an IDP after you are in the U.S. To apply for an IDP, contact the authorities of the country that issued your driver s license, or its motoring association, to inquire how to obtain an International Driving Permit. The IDP along with the valid driver s license from your home country will allow you to drive in Illinois without an IL Driver s License. An IDP does not replace a government issued driver license, but is its official translation. You may drive in Illinois without a valid Illinois driver s license under the following circumstances (found on Page 3 of 2014 Rules of the Road Booklet): If you are visiting or driving through Illinois, you must have a valid driver s license from your home state or country. If you are an out-of-state student attending an Illinois college/university, you, your spouse and children may drive with a valid license from your home state or country 33

34 We recommend that you keep a copy of the Rules of the Road Booklet in your car when driving in the U.S. on an IDP or home country driver s license. J-1 Exchange Visitors may apply for a driver license in the United States if they will be in the country for at least one year and have at least six months remaining on an authorized stay. You may find more information about the requirements at Seat Belts and Car Seats ( Safety belts must be worn by all drivers and front seat passengers even if the vehicle has air bags. All front seat passengers must be 8 years of age or older. It is the responsibility of the driver to see that all front seat passengers obey this law. NOTE: Children under the age of 12 should not sit in the front seat if the car contains a passengerside air bag. This can be dangerous and even deadly in an accident. The Child Passenger Protection Act requires the use of an appropriate safety restraint system for children under the age of 16 years. Any person transporting a child under the age of 16 years is responsible for that child s safety. Children under the age of 8 years must be secured appropriately in an approved child restraint system, which includes a booster seat. These rules are federal law. Please use safety seats and seat belts as required for your children at all times. Never hold a child on your lap in the car. Do not take a baby out of a car seat while the car is in motion, even if he/she is crying. An unprotected child can be seriously injured in an accident, even if you are driving very slowly. Safety seats may be purchased at many places in Edwardsville such as Target and Wal-Mart. Buying a Car You may buy a new car from an automobile dealer and a used car from a dealer or private individual. Financing may be obtained from the dealer or a bank. You must obtain a Certificate of Ownership from a car dealer or a Certificate of Title from an individual. The car must be registered immediately in the new owner s name. A Certificate of Title must be registered with the Illinois Secretary of State and transferred to the new name of the owner when the car is paid for. Illinois law requires you to purchase car insurance. 34

35 Campus Parking If you will be parking on campus you must purchase a parking permit from SIUE Parking Services located on campus in Rendleman Hall, Room 1113, Edwardsville, IL Telephone: OPENING A US BANK ACCOUNT We recommend that you open a US bank account to handle your expenses during your program. These are the different account types that most US banks offer: Checking accounts allow you to deposit and withdraw money frequently and are a great way to pay your monthly bills. When you open a checking account, it usually comes with checks and a bank card and allows you to use them to make purchases and pay bills. Often there are minimum monthly balances and service fees which varies by the type of account you open. Most students need only a checking account, and use it for managing living expenses at school. Savings accounts are for long term deposits for earning interest. The interests, minimum balances, service fees vary from bank to bank. It also depends on the amount of money you deposit. Most international students do not need a savings account. ATM (Automated Teller Machines) Usually banks will not charge extra fees when you are using your bank s ATM. When you use an ATM in a store or at other banks, you may be charged an extra transaction fee. How do I choose the right bank? Banks offer many different financial services for students. Compare the services and costs of several banks before choosing one. Find one with a branch on or close to campus. You will need a checking account to better manage your finances, one that allows you to make bill payments and write checks. If you are going to have a lot of money in your account, it might make sense to open a savings account. 35

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