Exchange visitor laws
While you attend Illinois State, there are federal immigration laws that you must follow to prevent falling out of status with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and the Department of State:
1. Exchange activities:
- Attend all your classes.
- Undergraduate students must be enrolled in at least 12 credit hours each semester. Graduate students must be enrolled in at least nine credit hours each semester.
- You must stay enrolled full-time during your exchange program.
2. Immigration documents: Do not let your passport or DS-2019 expire. Keep documents in a safe place. Contact ISSS for assistance if any of these documents are lost or stolen.
3. Health insurance: All J-1 students must have health insurance that is approved by the Department of State for the duration of their stay.
4. Employment: J-1 students are allowed to work on campus for up to 20 hours per week and off campus through Academic Training. However, before you start working, you must receive permission from ISSS.
If employed, you must apply for a Social Security Number (SSN). This nine-digit number helps the U.S. government monitor the wages you receive when employed. More information can be found on our Social Security page.
5. Change of contact information: Whenever you move or change your email or phone number, you must update your My Illinois State student portal within 10 days of the change.
6. When to enter the U.S. and when to leave: Your DS-2019 form shows a begin and an end date. You may enter the U.S. up to 30 days before the start date and exit up to 30 days after the end date.
Additional information for exchange visitors
- Some visitors may be subject to a two-year home country residency requirement. This law states that visitors must return to their home countries and be physically present there for two years before being able to return to the U.S. on certain visa types. You will be subject to this requirement if you have received government funding or possess skills that your government needs. Your visa and DS-2019 will say whether this requirement applies to you.
- J-1 Visa holders may not change category while in the U.S. For example, a non-degree-seeking student may not change to a degree-seeking student.
- You are always welcome to contact International Student and Scholar Services when you have questions, especially about immigration. When it comes to immigration matters, please do not rely on friends or family for information, as laws can be complex and can change.