J-1 Process
The primary purpose of the J-1 exchange visitor program is to promote educational and cultural exchange between the United States and other countries. The exchange of professors and research scholars stimulates international collaborative teaching and research efforts and promotes the establishment of mutually beneficial relationships between institutions in the United States and those abroad.
- Purpose: Educational and cultural exchange
- Intent: Return home. May be subject to 212(e) home residency requirement.
- Application: DU issues certificate of eligibility, Form DS -2019. May change status in the U.S. or apply for visa at U.S. embassy abroad.
- Duration: 6 months to 5 years depending on the subcategory
How to Request J-1 Sponsorship for a Visitor
To receive the most accurate advice and avoid unexpected delays, departments should start a new sponsorship request as early as possible.
After a sponsorship request for a scholar or employee has been started, ISSS will first confirm the visa type required. Further instructions and the documents needed for processing are available after this stage.
- Navigate to the ISSS Portal at isss.du.edu
2. Select ‘Department Access to Visiting Scholars’
3. Click Login for Department Admins'
4. Follow the instructions for submitting a sponsorship request
If you need access to the ISSS Portal or have questions about this process, please contact ISSS at isss@du.edu.
General Forms
- Individual Tax Identification Number (ITIN) - This handout explains how to apply for an ITIN as an alternate number for federal tax purposes if ineligible for a Social Security number.
- Letter re: lack of Social Security Number - This letter explains what requirements must be met before a J-1 Exchange Visitor would be eligible to obtain a Social Security Number.