Host or Hire a J-1 Scholar

Bring a J-1 Visiting Scholar to UNL

This process is to apply for a scholar coming to UNL for the first time.
For a scholar already at UNL, use a Request for Extension of Stay form.

1. Identify the terms of the exchange visitor’s project, assign a faculty mentor and complete the necessary hiring paperwork. Note that as of January 5, 2015, U.S. regulations require all new faculty, researchers, postdoctoral scholars (and some students) in J-1 immigration status to demonstrate proficiency in English.
2. The host department submits the DS-2019 Request including evidence of the scholar's English language proficiency to ISSO at least 2 months in advance of the scholar’s desired arrival date so the scholar will have time to obtain a visa. After documentation is submitted, ISSO will prepare a Welcome Packet for the scholar, including a DS-2019 form, and notify the host department when the paperwork is ready. 
3. The ISSO will email the DS-2019 to the scholar and copy the department. The email will include their next steps as well as pre-arrival information. The host department might also want to include information about working at UNL, living in Nebraska, U.S. academic culture, etc. 

If the scholar is currently a J-1 Exchange Scholar at another U.S. school and wishes to transfer visa sponsorship to UNL to pursue the same objectives, make arrangements with an international advisor at the other school.

1. After receiving the DS-2019, the scholar pays the SEVIS I-901 fee and then makes an appointment at a US embassy or consulate for a J-1 visa. Please notify ISSO if the visa is denied or if the scholar decides not to come to UNL.
2. The host department should ensure that housing has been arranged prior to the scholar’s arrival and that the scholar has information about transportation to campus from the Lincoln or Omaha airport. The scholar may enter the U.S. no more than 30 days prior to the program start date listed on the DS-2019, and must leave the country within 30 days of the program end date listed on the DS-2019.
3. Host institutions are required by law to provide an orientation to J-1 visa holders. Please have the scholar email internationalscholars@unl.edu once they arrive to schedule an orientation. Failure to check-in with ISSO will cancel the scholar's immigration status.
4. To receive payment from a US source, the scholar needs a Social Security number (SSN). To obtain one, the scholar must visit the Social Security Administration (SSA) office and present a copy of the invitation letter from the host department and original immigration documents (passport, DS-2019, I-94 card). The host department should assist the scholar in obtaining an SSN, if needed.