Ending J-1 Status

J-1 Exchange Visitors are required to be engaged in full time program activities for the duration of the validity of your Form DS-2019. If a scholar departs the U.S. or plans transfer to another institution, ISSS is required to complete, transfer or terminate their record in the Student and Exchange Visitor System (SEVIS.)

J-1 Exchange Visitors are required to depart the United States within 30 days of completing their program.  Employment is not allowed during this 30 day grace period for departure. If a scholar stops full-time participation in their program activities they must depart the US immediately. Scholars should consult with an ISSS advisor before they stop participating in their program activities or if they plan to leave early.

Scholars can report their departure from the U.S. by completing the departure notice. This form can also be completed at the ISSS office.

J-1 Transfers must be requested in advance, and are not always possible. SEVIS Transfer for J-1 scholars requires exact advanced coordination between UNC-CH and the transfer-in school.  Scholars must provide the name and contact information of their new advisors at the new institution to their ISSS advisor at UNC-CH.

Once UNC-CH completes or transfers a SEVIS record, any Forms DS-2019 that were issued to the scholar by UNC-CH should be kept by the scholar as part of their immigration records, but they should not use them to enter the U.S.

J-1 Research Scholars or Professors please note: Once a J-1 Research Scholar or Professor Program is completed or terminated, a 24 month bar to repeat participation may apply.