Maintaining J-1 Status

Maintaining J-1 Status

 J-1 Students

In order to maintain legal status, UTEP J-1 Students must:

 

  • Keep passport valid (at least 6 months into the future)
  • Always have your I-94 card as this can be very hard to replace if lost.
  • Always keep your DS-2019 current and don’t let the program end date expire
  • Complete 12 credit hours each semester if undergraduate; 9 credit hours if graduate student
  • Always visit with an OIP advisor before dropping courses if it takes you below the required minimum (above)
  • Request an extension PRIOR to current DS-2019 expiration date in item #3 if you need more time to finish the program. Extension request should be made at least two weeks in advance.
  • Get a new DS-2019 for any change in major or degree level
  • Report any change of address to OIP within 10 days of moving
  • Do not work on or off campus without authorization
  • Meet with an OIP advisor if you plan to transfer out
  • Get a recent travel signature on your current DS-2019 if traveling outside the U.S.
  • After you finish your degree, leave the U.S. within 30-day grace period or talk with an OIP Advisor regarding transfer options, second degree, etc.
  • Carry health insurance for yourself and your J-2s dependents throughout entire program
  • and ALWAYS read emails from OIP as it contains important information for you.  

 

J-1 Scholars and Professors

In order to maintain legal status, UTEP J-1 Scholars and Professors must:

 

  • Keep passport valid (at least 6 months into the future)
  • Always have your I-94 card as this can be very hard to replace if lost.
  • Always keep your DS-2019 current and don’t let the program end date expire
  • Only perform teaching or research activities at your “site of activity” noted on your DS-2019
  • Request an extension PRIOR to current DS-2019 expiration date in item #3 if you need more time to finish the program objective at UTEP. Extension request should be made at least two weeks in advance.
  • Get a new DS-2019 for any change in financial information, site of activity, etc…
  • Report any change of address to OIP within 10 days of moving
  • Do not accept additional employment offers for teaching and/or research activities until you have spoken with an OIP Advisor for information and authorization.
  • Meet with an OIP advisor if you plan to transfer out
  • Notify OIP if you plan to leave UTEP early and /or at the completion of your program, complete the J-1 Departure Form
  • Get a recent travel signature on your current DS-2019 if traveling outside the U.S.
  • After you finish your J-1 program objective, leave the U.S. within the 30-day grace period or talk with an OIP Advisor regarding transfer options, change of status, etc.
  • Carry health insurance for yourself and your J-2s dependents throughout entire program
  • and ALWAYS read emails from OIP as it contains important information for you.