When the Exchange Visitor Arrives
When your new Exchange Visitor arrives at USC, they will need to attend check-in and orientation with ISSS. The scholar should prepare the following documents:
- Passport with J-1 visa stamp
- DS-2019
- Print out of I-94 card (can be retrieved here)
- Proof of health insurance for principal and dependents for the duration of the DS-2019. See requirements for health insurance here.
During the Exchange Visitor’s Stay
Department Supervision: The Exchange Visitor must have a USC faculty supervisor during their entire stay and the Visitor must remain eligible for an HR appointment within the department.
Notify ISSS of changes in the Visitor status: Please notify ISSS in advance of any changes to the Visitor’s stay such as a change in site of activity, a change in pay, a change in pay status (e.g. from unpaid to paid), new supervisor (same department, same research goals), a change in department, incidental employment (Scholar needs authorization from ISSS before engaging in the employment), reimbursement for expenses (e.g. conference attendance, honoraria, travel, per diem, hotel costs), early departure (>30 days before the end date on Form DS-2019), transfer to another university while continuing their J-1 status and program extension.
Visitor's Health: If an exchange visitor supervised by your department is experiencing physical or mental health issues or is otherwise in distress, ISSS should be notified so we can effectively support the international scholar. In addition, ISSS has a requirement to report such instances to the U.S. Department of State. For more information about the University's reporting requirement, see here.
Program Completion: Please inform ISSS when an Exchange Visitor completes their stay and leaves, is terminated, decides to change program or transfer to another program sponsor, or does not return/continue after travel abroad. The Scholar should complete and submit the Departure Form.