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Survival Guide

J-1 Exchange Visitor Program (Scholars)

The Purpose of the Exchange Visitor Program is to promote cultural and educational exchange between citizens of the U.S. and those of other countries. The Program provides foreign nationals with opportunities to participate in exchange programs in the United States and then return home to share their experiences. The Exchange Visitor Program is not employment, although many participating in the Program may be paid by Emory. ISSS is responsible for administering its own program and is authorized by the U.S. Department of State to issue immigration documents to and authorize certain kinds of employment for the scholar. ISSS is required to monitor the activities of the scholar and report information through SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System) to the Department of Homeland Security.

DS-2019 Form

ISSS is responsible for the Exchange Visitor Program at Emory University and will issue appropriate documentation for eligible exchange visitors. The Certificate of Eligibility for Exchange Visitor Status (Form DS-2019) is the document that the scholar will take to a U.S. Consulate and apply for the J visa. The Form DS-2019 has information about the Exchange Visitor and the proposed Exchange Program, including the proposed dates of the program, personal data, the financial support, a brief description of the program, and will be signed by an ISSS advisor.

When the department receives this Form, they should check it over for accuracy. If any changes or corrections need to be made, they should notify ISSS immediately. If the scholar is delayed in arrival and new program dates are needed, an amended Form DS-2019 will need to be issued before 30 days after the start date on the current DS-2019.

The scholar will apply for the visa with the Form, and it will be marked by the Consular official and returned to the scholar. It will also be marked again and stamped at the port of entry. At Emory, only ISSS designated staff may sign the DS-2019. The scholar should keep the original document in his/her possession.