Maintaining J-1 Status

Responsibilities of the Scholar

Upon Arrival:

  • Check-in: All visiting scholars must report to the Office of International Services (OIS) upon arrival at the university. Bring your passport, DS-2019 form, most recent I-94 record, and proof of health insurance to the OIS office.
    • This is required in order to report your physical presence at our University to the U.S. Immigration and activate your SEVIS record.
  • Health Insurance: Proof of health insurance coverage is mandatory for all visiting scholars and their dependents (J-2) for the duration of their stay in the U.S.

During your stay:

  • Maintain accurate contact information: Inform OIS immediately if your contact information changes, including address, phone number, or email address.
  • Extension Request: Notify OIS at least 30 days before your program end date if you plan to extend your J-1 visa status.
  • Early Departure: Inform OIS if you need to leave the U.S. before your program end date.
  • Program Completion: Notify OIS when you have completed your program at Fordham and are returning to your home country.

These are important steps to ensure a smooth and compliant stay at Fordham University. Please cooperate with OIS to meet all necessary requirements.