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.

  1. Exchange Visitor Request Packet - completed and signed by faculty host/department
  2. Exchange Visitor Agreement - signed by EV
  3. Scan of Passport bio page (for invited EV and dependents)
  4. Copy of departmental invitation letter which must cover the following at a minimum:
    1. Program start and end date
    2. Program objectives for example: major activities, research topic/goals, duties, job description
    3. Site of activity: where EV will work (office, lab, etc.)
    4. Letter should be from sponsoring faculty host and endorsed by department chair/dean
  5.  Resume/CV (publications list not necessary)
  6.  Must not currently be subject to the 12 or 24 month bars on initial or repeat participation
  7.  Proof of funding (in English) which meets these minimum requirements:
    1. $1500 per month for the EV plus
    2. $500 per month for accompanying spouse plus
    3. $350 per month for each accompanying child
  8. Demonstrated English proficiency by one of the following:
    1. Recognized English language test (TOEFL Internet Based – 61, or Paper Based Test – 500, IELTS – 5.0)
    2. Signed documentation from an academic institution or English language school that articulates the scores specified under option (1)
    3. 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?