Ending O-1 Status

O-1 status is tied to employment as outlined on Form I-129. Once O-1 employment ends, there is no grace period and immediate departure from the U.S. is required. In some cases, immigration notes a 10-day grace period at the conclusion of the period of approved O-1 employment on Form I-94. This grace period only applies if it is included on the current Form I-94.

It is important to report the final departure to ISSS to ensure the accuracy of an individual’s immigration records and to preserve future immigration options. Before departing the U.S. or the University, an individual must complete a Departure Notice and submit it to ISSS.  The departure information is needed to accurately report it to the various immigration and government agencies.

If the Hosting Unit terminates employment prior to the expiration date of the O-1, they must offer to pay the reasonable costs of return transportation for the individual to the last place of foreign residence or to their home country. The scholar does not have to accept this offer. If the scholar decides to end the employment early, the Hosting Unit is not responsible for these costs.  The Hosting Unit is not responsible for the costs of return transportation for a scholar’s family or personal belongings.