Information J-1 Scholars: Part One

Maintaining Your J-1 Status 
As a J-1 visiting scholar at Yale University, you have been admitted for a specific period of time to engage in a particular research or teaching activity, as described on your DS-2019 form. You must take care during your stay to maintain lawful J-1 status, as failure to do so can have serious long-term consequences for you. Fortunately, there are some simple steps you can take to ensure that your stay in the U.S. remains valid:

• Be aware of the expiration date of your status. This is not your visa expiration date; it is the ending date in section 3 of your DS-2019 form. If your appointment at the University is extended, the hiring department must contact OISS before the current expiration date to have the DS-2019 form extended as well. 
• Do not accept unauthorized employment. The only activity you are permitted is the one described in section 4 of the DS-2019 form. You must consult an OISS advisor beforehand if you wish to take up any other work during your stay. (See information on "incidental employment.") 
• If offered a comparable position at another college or university, discuss your plans with an OISS advisor to make sure that the required transfer procedure can be accomplished. 
• Comply with USIA's health insurance requirements for J-1 visa holders and their families. Willful disregard of these requirements will result in termination of your program and your J-1 status. · 
• Keep your passport valid. Passports can be renewed by your consulate in New York or Boston. For information about the nearest consulate check http://www.embassy.org