Maintaining J-1 Status
Status requirements
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Keep a valid, unexpired passport and DS-2019
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Be enrolled full-time unless authorized by ISSS in advance. Maintain a full course of study as defined by your academic division except: during vacation, documented medical problems presented to the ARO, bona fide academic reason in writing from the academic dean or advisor presented to the ARO, final term in which less than a full course of study is needed to complete the academic requirements
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Maintain normal progress towards achievement of the original exchange program objectives
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Notify ISSS of any change of major or degree level within 10 days of the change
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Update your current address in OPUS within 10 days of any move
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Maintain requisite health insurance for yourself and all accompanying dependents
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Apply for an extension of your DS-2019 at least 15 days before expiration date
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Request a transfer in a timely manner
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Engage only in employment authorized in writing by ISSS
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Have a valid travel signature on your DS-2019 before leaving and re-entering the US
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Complete an Income Tax Return as per IRS regulation by April 15th of every year.
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Notify ISSS of any change in information or addition of dependents
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Obey local, state and federal laws
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Depart from the US in a timely manner
After completion of studies, you have 30 days to:
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Leave the country;
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Apply for and possibly be granted a new immigration status;
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Have begun Academic Training - must have applied for and received approval for Academic Training prior to the end date on your DS2019
Failure to maintain status means you must leave the country as soon as possible; there is no grace period.