Visas
It is the responsibility of each international student and dependant to maintain lawful immigration status. The following information is very basic. Please visit the International Center office or search SEVP website for more details. The most common student visa classes at the University of Florida are F and J.
J- Visa Class
Required Procedures for Maintaining Status:
J-1 students/scholars must:
- Maintain a valid DS-2019 and passport
- Engage only in activities permitted under their program and category
- File timely, appropriate transfer and extension notifications
- Refrain from unauthorized employment. Employment must be authorized by your J-1 sponsor.
- Maintain required health insurance coverage.*
*INSURANCE REQUIREMENT: ALL J-1 and J-2 visa holders ARE REQUIRED to carry health insurance that meets the J and/or University of Florida regulations.
J-2 dependent spouse or child:
- Is only in status while the J-1 is in status
- Is eligible for employment by applying for authorization from USCIS
For information about Travel outside the US with a J visa, please click here
Extension of Stay:
J-1 students/scholars must:
- Continually maintain legal status
- Not exceed any regulatory limits for the category
- Complete DS-2019 Extension Request forms (provided at the International Center) and show proof of sufficient funds
- Apply for program extension at the International Center “at least 2 months before your current DS-2019 expires”
J-2 dependent extensions are filed at the time of the J-1.
Employment Authorization:
J-1 students/scholars are eligible for employment:
- On campus if they have been authorized in writing by your J-1 advisor, before employment begins
- A maximum of 20 hours per week during fall/spring semesters
- Full-time during vacation periods
- When they are in good academic standing at an accredited educational institution
- When they continue in a full course of study, except for official school breaks and vacations
- Through Academic Training
J-2 dependents are eligible for employment and are required to:
- Apply and be approved for full-time or part-time work authorization through USCIS. Form I-765 may be picked up at the International Center
- Not work for the purpose of supporting the J-1
- Reapply, in a timely manner, for renewal of the Employment Authorization Document (EAD) each year
- Cease working if the J-1 violates status, changes from J-1 to another non-immigrant class, or leaves the J program altogether