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Maintaining J-1 Student Status

J-1 Status Requirements 

As a J-1 student, to maintain valid visa status, you are required to: 

  • Arrive in the U.S. no more than 30 days prior to the start date printed on your Form DS-2019. 
  • Complete the entire mandatory check-in process in a timely manner. 
  • Maintain current, valid copies of all required documents at all times: 
    • Form DS-2019 
    • Passport 
    • I-94 record 
  • Maintain appropriate health insurance coverage for yourself and any J-2 dependents. 
    • Coverage must be active for the entire J-1 program, even when outside the U.S. 
  • Enroll as a full-time student at the University of Florida.  
    • You must make normal progress toward completing your academic program. 
    • If necessary, you may seek authorization for a Reduced Course Load or Leave of Absence. 
  • Refrain from any unauthorized employment.
    • Any employment activity must be approved, in writing, by your EVS advisor before it begins. 
    • Volunteering may be considered employment for immigration purposes; consult with your EVS advisor before beginning any volunteer activity. 
  • Submit timely extension requests to EVS, if necessary. 

Students who do not comply with all J visa regulations will have their SEVIS record terminated. This ends the J-1 program, as well as the valid visa status of the J-1 student and any J-2 dependents.  

Students whose SEVIS records are terminated must leave the U.S. immediately. They cannot request an extension of stay or in-country change-of-status. 

Reinstatement 

If you have fallen out of valid J status and your SEVIS record has been terminated, you may be able to regain valid status. The filing of reinstatements will be considered by EVS on a case-by-case basis.  

You must contact your EVS advisor immediately for help.