Responsibilities & Benefits of J-1 Visa Status
Your visa status in the U. S. is ultimately a matter between yourself the Department of State and the U.S. Citizenship & Immigration Services (USCIS). You are expected to learn and understand the requirements and benefits of J-1 visa status, to meet those requirements and maintain status at all times while in the U. S. You also have the responsibility to inform the International Education & Programs Office (IEP) at Cal Poly of any changes that might affect your relationship as a student here and your ability or interest to maintain J-1 visa status.
There are specific immigration reporting requirements for J-1 and F-1 international students. The SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System) is a mechanism to electronically transmit the required information to the U. S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and Department of State (DOS) throughout a student stay in the United States. Schools will be required to regularly provide updates through SEVIS regarding quarterly enrollment, change of address, change of major or degree objective, school transfers, etc. Maintaining visa status and full-time enrollment is critical and regaining status with the USCIS/DOS may only be possible in limited circumstances.
The International Student Advisor is available in the International Education & Programs office to help you understand your immigration responsibilities and apply for benefits. You are encouraged to meet with the advisor in order to make informed decisions before you take any action that could result in the loss of your visa status. Please also read your International Student Handbook and check the International Students web site for updated information.
Responsibilities
- Carry health insurance for themselves and their accompanying family members. By government regulation, minimum coverage must provide up to $50,000 per accident or illness; $7,500 for repatriation of remains; $10,000 for medical evacuation to the home country; and the California State University requires that the deductible not exceed $200 per accident or illness.
- Enroll and complete full-time coursework (12 units for undergraduate and 8 units for graduate students during fall, winter, and spring quarters.)
- Do not work off-campus without pre-approved Academic Training.
- Notify the International Student Advisor at the IEP office before you begin any on-campus employment.
- See the advisor for a letter if you wish to apply for a Social Security Number.
- Limit all on-campus employment to a total of 20 hours or less while school is in session.
- Keep your passport valid at all times (if expired, renew at your country’s Consulate or Embassy in the U.S.)
- Request a travel signature on your DS-2019 at least one week before leaving the U.S. in order to return and continue your exchange program.
- Keep all of your documents in a safe place. There is no need to carry a passport on campus or in town. You can get a California Identification Card at the local San Luis Obispo DMV office.
- Obey all state and federal laws.It is mandatory that you report any change of address to the IEP office within 10 days of the change.
Apply for academic training before the end of your final quarter.
Benefits
- Eligible for part-time on-campus employment, 20 hours or less per week while school is in session and full-time during vacation periods. Full-time employment is any amount of time more than 20 hours per week. Students must report all on-campus work (pdf) to the IEP office. See IEP for a letter to take to the Social Security Office to get a Social Security Card.
- Can stay in the U.S. with an expired visa stamp as long as student status is maintained.
- May travel within the U.S.
- Eligible to apply for Academic Training work experience with your home university’s approval and recommendation by your Cal Poly Academic Advisor.
- Have 30 days to depart the U.S. after the expiration date on your DS 2019 form.
Contact Info
The IEP office is located in Building 38, Room 145
Phone: 805-756-1477 Fax: 805-756-5484
The International Student Advisor is Judy Mitchell, Bldg 38, Room 107
Phone: 805-756-5837
NOTE: The information obtained from the IEP Office should not be used as the sole source of information for making decisions that may affect one's legal status in the U.S. or one's right to study, teach, conduct research, or work. Each student is individually responsible for maintaining his or her visa status.
