Transfer Out for J-1 Exchange Visitor Scholars
Instructions for Transferring Out of the Current J-1 Program
Transfer Out for J-1 Exchange Visitor Scholars
Who can "transfer out" their SEVIS record from the University of Utah?
J-1 Exchange Visitors may transfer to another institution in the U.S. as long as the purpose of a transfer is to continue the original program goals and objectives of an exchange program and if the EV remains within the same participant category (Research Scholar, Professor, Short-Term Scholar, Student Intern, and Specialist). Check out our Frequently Asked Questions on transferring out.
If you are unsure if a new program at the University of Utah would be a continuation of the objectives of a current program, please complete a Transfer Survey to assess both programs.
General Guidelines for a Transfer Out
- We recommend to communicate with the Alternate Responsible Officer (International Scholar Advisor) at your current institution at least one month before the start of a new appointment at the University of Utah, as both institutions must collaborate on all SEVIS transfers.
- There must be no gap between the end date of the program at your current institution and the transfer effective (begin date) date at the University of Utah. Both institutions will communicate as to the appropriate transfer effective date.
- A new DS-2019 will be issued to you on or after the transfer effective date.
- You are not allowed to begin a new Exchange Visitor Program at the University of Utah until the transfer effective (begin) date has been reached.
Submit the Transfer Out SEVIS Record E-form
Be prepared to provide the following information when completing the e-form:
- End Date of the Exchange Visitor Program at the University of Utah and the Begin Date of your Exchange Visitor Program at the new institution.
- Name of the new institution.
- Program Number of the new institution (in most cases, begins with a P-1).
- Brief statement and confirmation that the transfer WILL, or WILL NOT, be a continuation of your original program objectives.
- Invitation or appointment letter from the new institution (the program begin date listed in the E-form must match the begin date in your letter).
- Transfer-in eligibility document from the new institution (optional, and if requested by your new institution).
Transfer Out Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. However, please be cautious. If you depart the U.S. while your SEVIS transfer is pending,
you must re-enter the U.S. on the DS-2019 of your new institution. A delay in travel,
especially for a delay in travel of more than 30 days past the transfer effective
date, may result in a “no show” status and/or completion of your J-1 exchange visitor program, which could result in an end
to your legal visa status.
Yes. The 212(e) home residency requirement does not affect your ability to transfer out to another institution. For more information please refer to our 212(e) Policy section.
We are not aware that a SEVIS transfer would adversely impact a 212(e) waiver application in pending status (not yet awarded by USCIS or receiving a Favorable Recommendation from DOS; however, we suggest consulting an immigration attorney for additional guidance.
We are not aware of restrictions to a SEVIS transfer in this case, although some EV Programs will not accept transfers after a Favorable Recommendation. Please also be aware that a transfer to another institution could possibly re-subject an EV to 212(e). Also keep in mind that extensions will not be granted after a Favorable Recommendation or waiver award. For further guidance, we suggest consulting with a qualified immigration attorney.
No. Since a transfer should be for the continuation of your J-1 Exchange Visitor Program, reaching the maximum length of your J-1 visa category would make you ineligible to transfer to another Exchange Visitor Program. For other options, please consult an ISSS Scholar Advisor or a qualified immigration attorney.
Extension can be requested for any length of time up to the J-1 visa category maximum duration; however, your eligibility to extend would be assessed by your new institution.
No. A transfer cannot be completed if an exchange visitor's status in SEVIS is not active, and as a result, transfers during the 30 day grace period would not be permissible.