International Students and Scholars Office

Arrival and Departure Dates for J-1 Scholars

As a J-1 visa scholar, you are to enter the U.S. and report arrival to Brandeis:

• Up to 30 days before the Start Date on your DS-2019. You are not permitted to begin your J program scholar activities or be paid before the Start Date.
• Up to 21 days after the Start Date on your DS-2019.

Be sure to choose an arrival date that allows you time to complete all of the required steps after you arrive, including time to rest from jet lag, check in with ISSO and your hosting department, complete paperwork, find housing, and more.

If you cannot arrive during the above grace period, you must ask your hosting department to request an amended start date so we can update the program start date on your DS-2019. Your SEVIS ID and Program numbers will not change. If you’ve already had your visa interview with the U.S. consulate, you won’t need to return to the consulate to show them the new form (unless they specifically ask you to). We will share your new DS-2019 with you electronically. You should print it out and take it with you when you travel. At the port of entry, you should show the original DS-2019 that was mailed to you with our signature. If asked, you can provide the updated DS-2019 that was shared with you digitally.

Departure Period

All J-1 visa holders have a 30-day grace period after the End Date on the DS-2019. During the 30-day grace period, you are permitted to travel within the U.S. and prepare for departure. However, you cannot participate in or be paid for scholar program activities.