Eligibility Requirements
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Faculty members at SIU can invite J-1 Exchange Visitors (EV) by agreeing to "host" a non-citizen by applying through the Center for International Education. Before requesting to host a J-1 EV, the following documents must be submitted to jvisas@siu.edu.
- Exchange Visitor Request Packet - completed and signed by faculty host/department
- Exchange Visitor Agreement - signed by EV
- Scan of Passport bio page (for invited EV and dependents)
- Copy of departmental invitation letter which must cover the following at a minimum:
- Program start and end date
- Program objectives for example: major activities, research topic/goals, duties, job description
- Site of activity: where EV will work (office, lab, etc.)
- Letter should be from sponsoring faculty host and endorsed by department chair/dean
- Resume/CV (publications list not necessary)
- Must not currently be subject to the 12 or 24 month bars on initial or repeat participation
- Proof of funding (in English) which meets these minimum requirements:
- $1500 per month for the EV plus
- $500 per month for accompanying spouse plus
- $350 per month for each accompanying child
- Demonstrated English proficiency by one of the following:
- Recognized English language test (TOEFL Internet Based – 61, or Paper Based Test – 500, IELTS – 5.0)
- Signed documentation from an academic institution or English language school that articulates the scores specified under option (1)
- Documented interview conducted in person, by videoconference, or by telephone (email jvisas@siu.edu for information about using this option)
Step 3> Invite a J-1 Exchange Visitor Ready to invite someone after understanding the agreement, and requirements?