Current Visiting International Students

In order to participate in the UNCW Visiting International program, you will need to review our Visiting International Admission page.

Once you meet the qualifications for the visiting international program (particularly exchange), you will receive the DS-2019 immigration document and follow the steps to Apply for the J-1 Visa.

J-1 Immigration Regulations

The following are guidelines for maintaining your status:

• report to the GPIE within 15 days of your initial arrival to the US to complete a mandatory “check-in” procedure. Bring your passport and all other immigration-related documents to the Office with you;
• maintain accurate and valid immigration documents at all times, and apply in a timely fashion for any needed changes or extensions of any of these documents; specifically, this means:
• keep your passport valid at all times (preferably valid at least 6 months into the future)
• obtain DS-2019 extensions to continue your studies, as needed, at least one month prior to the current document’s expiration
• have your DS-2019 updated to reflect any change of program, degree level or funding source before making the change
• ensure that your I-94 card is marked “J-1 D/S”
• meet “full course of study” enrollment requirements for each fall and spring semester (at least 12 credits for Undergraduate students, 9 credits for Graduate students—some exceptions may apply, speak with your adviser at GPIE);
• report all US address changes within 10 days of moving to the GPIE;
• seek and receive proper authorization from the GPIE for any off campus employment prior to starting to work;
• obtain a “travel signature” on your DS-2019 prior to leaving the US if you intend to return to the US after your trip abroad;
• file a federal tax return for each year you have earned income in the U.S. or a Form 8843 for each year you are in the U.S. but have not earned income;
• when ending UNCW visa sponsorship, inform the GPIE of the date and reason for your departure (required SEVIS information). Meet the 30-day grace period requirement.