International Students & Scholars Guidebook

Transcription

1 International Students & Scholars Guidebook International Students & Scholars Office of International Affairs Lehigh University Bethlehem, Pennsylvania

2 International Guidebook OISS 2011 Lehigh University OISS Phone Fax

3 International Guidebook OFFICE OF INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS & SCHOLARS (OISS) INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS & SCHOLARS GUIDEBOOK Page 1

4 Table of Contents Table of Contents YOUR HOME AWAY FROM HOME: OISS Why are we here?... 5 What do we do?... 6 Meet the OISS Staff... 7 OISS Contact Information... 8 We Need You... 9 IMMIGRATION ISSUES Immigration Terms You Need to Know F 1 Student Information Keeping You Legal To Travel or Not to Travel Employment Options Program Extensions Reinstatement Procedures Maintaining Full-Time Status Change of Address J-1 Student / Scholar Information Keeping You Legal To Travel or Not to Travel Student Employment Options Scholar Employment Options Program Extensions Maintaining Full-Time Status Change of Address Month Bar Month Bar Obtaining F-1 or J-1 Status HI-B Status Information H1-B Requirements Page 2

5 Table of Contents Filing Department of Labor & Compliance Extension of Stay Change of Status Travel Change of Employer Change of Address Other Useful Immigration Websites DO I NEED A SOCIAL SECURITY NUMBER? Eligibility Requirements Procedures Location & Processing Times Security & Identity Theft TAX INFORMATION Do I have to Pay Taxes? Tax Forms and Resources Your Tax Filing Obligations COPING & LIVING IN A NEW CULTURE What is Culture Shock? Stages of Culture Shock Tips for Adjusting to Life in Lehigh Language Problems If an Emergency Occurs Living in the United States U.S. EDUCATION SYSTEM Academic Year Academic Program Academic Advisor Professors Grading System Page 3

6 Table of Contents Classroom Learning Code of Conduct COMMON TERMS Common Lehigh Terms USA/PA Slang Terms Common Academic Terms Common Medical Insurance Terms THE TOP TEN LISTS Restaurants near Campus Things to do on a Weekend Places to Buy Groceries Top Five Farmer s Markets Places to Shop OTHER IMPORTANT THINGS TO KNOW Driving in Pennsylvania Religious Places for Worship Know Your Rights and Legal Services Important Lehigh Offices & Phone Numbers Page 4

7 Your Home Away from Home Why are we here? Our primary concern as an office is YOU, the international student or scholar. The members of the Office of International Students & Scholars staff (OISS) are professionals trained to offer advice regarding immigration policies, tax and employment issues, as well as non-academic counseling on issues such as adjusting to a new culture and its customs. The mission of OISS is to: Provide support services for international students and scholars to ensure maximum opportunities for them to achieve their goals; Be a resource to the faculty, staff and administration on issues related to the international students and scholars, cross-cultural communication and diversity; Support the University s efforts to internationalize the campus, and; Create an environment where the Lehigh community is exposed to a multitude of cultures, traditions and viewpoints by presenting internationally focused academic, cultural and social programming. Page 5

8 Your Home Away from Home Welcome from ISS On behalf of Lehigh University, the Office of International Students and Scholars (ISS) welcomes you to Lehigh and Bethlehem. It is our pleasure to provide services to you so that you can have a productive and enriched academic and social life at Lehigh. It is our hope that you will use our resources and expertise in immigration consultation, participate in the activities and events we organize for you, and make your contributions to the Lehigh community. The mission of ISS is to provide regulatory and transitional services and supports for the international community. ISS cultivates and promotes crosscultural understanding by working with other Lehigh departments and units to organize social and cultural activities and events. By serving as resources for the Lehigh and local community, ISS promotes international educational exchanges. ISS is designated to represent Lehigh on all immigration related matters, serve as the Lehigh s liaison to federal government agencies, and provide professional immigration and visa advice to the Lehigh community. The ISS staff have many years of experience in the field of international education and immigration advising. We strive to provide the best services and to assist you to achieve your academic and personal objectives while at Lehigh. We hope you will have a successful academic and social life! Gang Wang Director, International Students and Scholars Page 6

9 Your Home Away from Home Meet the Staff Bonnie Beidleman, Secretary, Bonnie joined Lehigh in She is the first smile you meet in ISS. She is responsible for directing phone calls and walkin students and scholars to a proper adviser, data-entry, preparing letters and maintaining electronic files. Jeanne Tan Ma, Assistant Director, jet206@lehigh.edu Jeanne advises F-1 students and their dependents on visa/immigration matters. She also coordinates ISS cultural and social programs as well as Fall and Spring Orientation programs. Jeanne holds a BA in International Economics and Japanese from the University of Kentucky and obtained her Master's in Intercultural Communication from the University of Pennsylvania's Graduate School of Education. Gisela M. Nansteel, Senior Immigration Specialist, gmn0@lehigh.edu Gisela advises and counsels international students, scholars, their dependents as well as faculty and department administrators on visa and immigration matters. In addition, she helps students and scholars with their tax returns. With many years' working experience at Lehigh and in the field of international education, Gisela has rich knowledge of Lehigh and local community, and provides practical advice on a variety of issues. Gang Wang, Director, gaw312@lehigh.edu For the last twenty years, Gang has been working in the field of international education at various universities such as Miami, Cornell, Yale and University of California, San Francisco in different capacities. In addition to the office management, he advises international students and scholars on immigration and visa matters. He works closely with ISS staff implementing cultural, social and educational programs on campus. Aftan Baldwin, Graduate Assistant Aftan is the graduate assistant in ISS for this academic year. She studied sociology at Bowling Green State University and is now continuing her education in Lehigh's Comparative and International Education program. Page 7

10 Your Home Away from Home Our Location & Telephone Numbers Page 8

11 Your Home Away from Home Coxe Hall Baer International Centre 32 Sayre Drive Bethlehem, PA Tel: (610) Emergency #: (484) Fax: (610) Web: Office Hours for Students: Monday Friday: 9:00am 4:00pm Appointments: Mondays & Tuesdays: 1:30pm 3:30pm Fridays: 9:00am 11:30am Walk-ins (No Appointment Necessary): Wednesdays & Thursdays: 1:30pm 4:00pm We Need You. Your participation in our social, cultural and international educational programs is an essential ingredient for making them successful. Your efforts help to further Lehigh s mission to internationalize the campus and develop an understanding of other cultures and nations by participating in student clubs, International Week and the Bazaar. Check out our Photo gallery at: Page 9

12 Your Home Away from Home Celebrating Cultures Lehigh is home to one of the nation s largest International Week celebrations, held each November and sponsored by the Global Union. The students help create over 30 exciting programs to be enjoyed by the whole university. In the spring semester, our international students move their cultures and heritage on to center stage in an explosion of colors, tastes and languages at The Bazaar. The everyday pressures are swept aside for saris, ethnic dances, and a multitude of cuisines creating a joyful recognition that the Lehigh family has roots that reach around the world. In addition, events celebrating Chinese New Year and Diwali are opportunities for all students to enjoy each other s traditions, music and food. Global Union The Global Union presents discussions on important topics that cross geographic borders and impact the world in some significant manner. Activities have included the global perspective on the American presidential election, tour the United Nations, or meet with various ambassadors to the United States. A majority of the international programs on campus are presented by the Global Union (GU), which is an umbrella organization for more than 25 student clubs and organizations. There are more than 600 members from over 30 countries, representing a cross-section of academic disciplines. For more information and a calendar of events, visit: The GU hosts panel Page 10

13 Immigration Terms You Need to Know discussions on world issues, dinners and cultural festivals, musical performances, International Week and a language exchange program. Social & Fun Programs Sometimes it is just fun to play. OISS organizes all kinds of interesting and fun trips throughout the year, such as whitewater rafting down the Lehigh River, visiting National s Capital, Historic Philadelphia, Lady Liberty in NYC, American Football 101, hiking the Appalachian Trail and even swooshing down the ski slopes at Blue Mountain. Immigration Terms You Need to Know OISS understands that immigration regulations can often appear very confusing, complicated, and involve unfamiliar terms or concepts. To help you understand the essential rules and regulations, we are offering you this glossary of immigration terms to guide you through the process. USCIS (United States Citizenship and Immigration Services) USCIS provides services formerly offered by the Immigration and Naturalization Service. USCIS is responsible for the administration of immigration and naturalization adjudication functions and establishing immigration services policies and priorities. These functions include: adjudication of immigrant visa petitions; adjudication of naturalization petitions; adjudication of asylum and refugee applications; adjudications performed at the service centers: and all other adjudications formerly performed by the INS. Page 11

14 Immigration Terms You Need to Know Customs & Border Protection (CBP) The Customs & Border Protection Office, under Department of Homeland Security, handles border security and the enforcement of immigration laws. Completion Date Refers to the date the student completes the requirements for his or her degree program; i.e., it is the date the student finishes the last class, turns in a required thesis or dissertation, or otherwise meets the requirements for the degree. It is not the date of graduation, which may follow the completion date by weeks if not months. F-1 students have 60 days to remain in the U.S. beyond completion of studies to either prepare for departure or begin any authorized practical training; and J-1 students have 30 days to remain in the U.S. beyond completion of studies to either prepare for departure or begin any authorized academic training. Department of Homeland Securities (DHS) DHS is responsible for securing American borders and managing the immigration process. Under DHS, the newly created United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) focuses exclusively on providing services such as efficiently processing applications for U.S. citizenship, administering work authorizations and other permits, and providing services for new residents and citizens. Designated School Official (DSO) An employee or agent of an educational institution who has been authorized by USCIS to verify information and certify documents for F-1 students. DS-2019 A certificate of eligibility issued by an authorized Exchange Visitor program. The certificate enables eligible individuals to obtain a J-1 visa to study, conduct research, or teach in the U.S. The J-1 exchange visitor, while traveling and reentering the U.S., must also carry the DS The DS-2019 form functions as a record of J-1 status throughout the exchange visitor's stay in the U.S. It is an Page 12

15 Immigration Terms You Need to Know important government document that should be kept at all times as a part of the exchange visitor's permanent records. Duration of Status (D/S) Duration of Status or "D/S" is the length of time for which individuals in F and J status are admitted into the United States. D/S allows students to remain in the United States as long as they are pursuing full-time studies and are otherwise complying with all immigration regulations. D/S is not, however, for an indefinite period of time. D/S is based on the completion date on your I-20 or DS-2019, plus a 60-day grace period for F-1 students and a 30-day grace period for J-1 students. It is possible to extend D/S by applying for a program extension prior to the expiration of the current I-20 or DS Employment Authorization Document Known as the "EAD Card," it is a photo ID card issued by USCIS to nonimmigrants, which grants employment authorization for specific periods of time. F-1 students need to apply for an EAD card to have permission to do optional practical training and off-campus employment (based on economic hardship). J-2 dependents may also apply for an EAD card to have any type of employment. F-1 Student A non-immigrant who is admitted into the United States to pursue a full course of study. F-1 student s educational expenses are usually met by personal, family or university funds. F-2 Dependent A spouse or child of an F-1 student. F-2 spouses and children may not be employed while in the United States. F-2 spouses may not study. F-2 children may study full-time only if it is in elementary or secondary school. H1-B Temporary Worker Status Status permitting a non-immigrant to work in the United States. An employer, Page 13

16 Immigration Terms You Need to Know such as a company/organization, agrees to petition and sponsor that individual for USCIS approval. H1-B status is employer specific. H-4 Dependent A spouse or child of an H-1B. H-4 dependents may not work but can study, part-time or full-time. I-9 Form (Employment Verification) Verifies your eligibility to work in the U.S. All U.S. citizens and non-u.s. citizens are required to fill out this form. I-20 (SEVIS I-20) A certificate of eligibility issued by an authorized educational institution (Lehigh University), enabling eligible individuals to obtain an F-1 student visa, to apply for F-1 student status. The F-1 student, while traveling and re-entering the U.S, must also carry the I-20. This document reflects the student's biographical data, school and program information, and financial resources. The F-1 student should keep the I-20 as a part of his or her permanent records. I-94 (Arrival/Departure Card) A small white card issued to all non-immigrants by a U.S. immigration officer at the port of entry. It is usually stapled into your passport. It is evidence of legal entry into the U.S., indicating the date of arrival, the classification (e.g., tourist, diplomat, student) and the amount of time one is permitted to stay in the U.S. The I-94s of those in F and J status should be marked with the letters "D/S," for duration of status (see above). I-94s are surrendered to the airlines when leaving the U.S. except when traveling to Canada, Mexico and adjacent islands in the Caribbean. I-102 (Application for Replacing Lost Arrival Documents) This form is completed when a student or scholar loses any arrival documents, such as the I-94 Card (Arrival/Departure Card). Page 14

17 Immigration Terms You Need to Know I-129 (Petition to be Classified as a Non-Immigrant Temporary Worker) This is an application form used by an individual to petition USCIS to become a Temporary Worker in H1-B. (See H1-B) I-134 (Affidavit of Support) A form used by any individual (including non-immigrants) to prove that they have the financial resources to pay for tuition and living expenses for the individual who is coming to the U.S. to visit or study. I-539 Form (Application to Extend Status/Change of Status) The application form used to apply for a change of status within the U.S. It is also used to regain legal F-1 status in connection with a reinstatement application. I-765 Form (Application for Employment Authorization) The form used to apply for the Employment Authorization Document (EAD) card (see above). I-797 (Notice of Action) A document issued by USCIS to any student or scholar who has submitted some kind of immigration application or petition, informing the student or scholar of receipt of the documentation or approval of their petition. Immigration & Customs Enforcement (ICE) Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is the principal investigative arm of DHS. The mission of ICE is to promote homeland security and public safety through the criminal and civil enforcement of federal laws governing border control, customs, trade, and immigration. Immigrant A foreign national who intends to establish a permanent residence in the U.S. Permanent residency is granted when an immigrant visa is issued or a foreign national undergoes a successful "adjustment of status" application. Page 15

18 Immigration Terms You Need to Know J-1 Student A non-immigrant who has been selected to participate in an exchange visitor program. J-1 students generally are financially sponsored by an educational institution in the U.S. or abroad, the U.S. or an international government, or a private agency in support of international educational exchange. For individuals holding J-1 status, there is usually a two-year home country residency requirement and health insurance requirement. (Refer to J-1 Scholar section under each heading.) J-1 Scholar A non-immigrant who has been selected to participate in an exchange visitor program. Categories of exchange visitors are professors, research scholars, short-term scholars and specialists temporarily in the U.S. Most J-1 scholars come to the U.S. for a minimum stay of three weeks and to a maximum of three years. The short-term scholar category allows an exchange visitor to enter even for a day or two, with a maximum stay of six months. TWO-YEAR HOME COUNTRY RESIDENCY REQUIREMENT: Any J-1 individuals (students or scholars) who have received direct funding from their government or the U.S. Government, or whose skills are deemed to be in short supply by the home country are obliged to leave the U.S. upon completion of their programs. These scholars may not change their immigration status to another non-immigrant category permitting employment, such as H-1B status, or adjust their status to that of permanent resident until they have completed the obligatory stay of two years in their home country. In some cases, this requirement may be waived upon recommendation of the home government, or on other grounds. The final authority to grant the waiver lies with the Department of State. The two-year home country residence requirement does not, however, apply in all cases, since there are many countries that do not maintain a list of skills in short supply. Health Insurance: J-1 students and scholars must also carry adequate health insurance for themselves and any accompanying dependents (J-2 status) in order Page 16

19 Immigration Terms You Need to Know to maintain valid status. Department of State mandates that all J-1 students and scholars must have health insurance. J-2 Dependent A spouse or child of a J-1 student or scholar. J-2 dependents are eligible to apply for employment through USCIS. Non-immigrant A person who is in the U.S. temporarily to pursue a specific activity or purpose (e.g., study, travel, or business). Most non-immigrants, including all F-1 and J-1 students and their dependents, must have an established residence abroad to which they intend to return. There are over fifty classifications of nonimmigrants, each defined according to the primary purpose of stay in the U.S. Passport A formal permit to travel abroad from and return to the issuing country. With few exceptions, it is issued by one's country of citizenship. All individuals in F and J status are required to have a valid passport at all times. It is your responsibility to extend or replace your passport when it expires. Information on renewing your passport is available from your country's consulate in New York City or embassy in Washington, D.C. Primary Designated School Official (PDSO) The point person for contact on any issues related to Lehigh s compliance with the immigration regulations. Responsible Officer (RO) The Responsible Officer (RO) is in charge of overseeing and hosting the J-1 Exchange Visitor Program. SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System) An Internet-based database for electronically tracking and reporting foreign students and exchange visitors in the United States. I-20s for F-1 students and DS-2019s for J-1 students/scholars are generated using SEVIS. Page 17

20 Immigration Terms You Need to Know SEVIS I-901 Fee The SEVIS I-901 fee is mandated by Congress to support the SEVP (Student & Exchange Visitor Program) office and the automated system that keeps track of students and exchange visitors and ensures that they maintain their status while in the U.S. Each student or exchange visitor issued an initial I-20 or DS on or after 10/27/2008 is responsible for paying this fee to SEVP. State Department The U.S. Department of State oversees diplomatic affairs and foreign relations for the U.S. It is also responsible for issuing visas to foreign nationals who wish to enter the U.S., and regulates the Exchange Visitor Program, which includes J -1 students. Status Once non-immigrants enter the U.S., they are classified by USCIS according to the purpose of their visit. This classification is known as "status." Students are in either F-1 or J-1 status and their dependents are in F-2 or J-2 status. USCIS regulates non-immigrants according to the rules specific to that status. For example, one of the requirements of F-1 status is full-time study. A person's status also determines how long he or she may remain in the U.S. US-VISIT US-Visit is part of a continuum of security measures that begins overseas, when a person applies for a visa to travel to the United States, and continues on through entry and exit at U.S. air and seaports and, eventually, at land border crossings. The program facilitates legitimate travel and trade by leveraging technology and the evolving use of biometrics to expedite processing at our borders. At this time, US-VISIT requires that most foreign visitors traveling to the U.S. on a visa have their fingers scanned and a digital photograph taken to verify their identity at the port of entry. Visas are required for most students, business travelers (depending on their length of stay) and millions of other visitors, regardless of where they live. Page 18

21 Immigration Issues Visa An official notation placed in the passport granting permission for an individual to enter a particular country, such as the U.S. The visa indicates the purpose of someone's visit. Persons entering the U.S. to study must obtain either an F-1 or a J-1 visa. The visa is also valid for a specified number of entries to the United States: one, two, or "multiple," i.e., any number, until the expiration date. The visa does not indicate how long a person may remain in the United States (see "Status," above), but only whether a person may enter the U.S. to pursue a particular type of activity (visit friends, study, work). Only U.S. consulates and embassies outside of the U.S issue visas. F-1 Student Keeping You Legal United States immigration law places responsibility upon the individual student to know and follow all relevant immigration regulations. Failure to comply with these regulations may have very severe consequences for your ability to study, seek employment, or even remain in the United States. Please read the list below carefully and contact OISS with any questions you may have regarding the following regulations. 1. Make sure that your immigration documents are valid or unexpired. To do so, you must have: A valid foreign passport - for at least six months into the future; An I-94 card marked "F-1 D/S" and An unexpired I-20 that has been stamped by an USCIS inspector upon entry of the U.S. border or issued by an OISS immigration advisor in the case of transferring from another U.S. school. 2. Register for a full course load every semester. Undergraduate (BA/BS) students must always complete at least 12 credits Page 19

22 Immigration Issues every semester. Graduate (MA/MS/MBA/PhD) students are ordinarily required to complete 9 credits per semester in order to be considered full-time. All students are required to make normal, full-time progress toward degree completion and to complete a degree within specified time periods. Extensions other than for medical or other unavoidable academic reasons are not permitted. Part-Time Enrollment: If you are only going to register on a part-time basis (less than 12 credits for undergraduates and less than 9 credits for graduates) YOU MUST OBTAIN OISS APPROVAL BEFORE your registration is finalized. Note: Retroactive approval of part-time enrollment once registered is not possible. 3. Consult OISS prior to accepting on-campus or off-campus employment. Full-time students in F-1 status may accept on-campus employment of no more than 20 hours per week during the school year or full-time during vacation periods (more than 20 hours per week). 4. Report any change of address to OISS within 10 days of your move. All F visa holders are required to maintain a current local U.S. address and an overseas permanent address with OISS and Banner. 5. Apply for an extension of your I-20 before your documents expire if you need more time to complete your program. Apply for an extension of your I-20 at least 30 days prior to the expiration of your document. An extension request submitted after your I-20 has expired cannot be processed. Failure to complete your program of study on time or to obtain a timely program extension may constitute a violation of your non-immigrant status. 6. Contact OISS immediately if there are any changes to your I-20 or to your personal or academic situation. Examples of such changes include, but are not limited to the following: Change of name or citizenship; Change of school, major, or degree level; Withdraw or termination from program due to academic or medical reasons; Leaving the U.S. for research, study, or a leave of absence Page 20

23 Immigration Issues Transferring to another institution in the U.S. MAINTAINING LEGAL STATUS IN THE UNITED STATES IS YOUR INDIVIDUAL RESPONSIBILITY. Keep updated about the latest changes in immigration regulations by checking the monthly OISS newsletter, notifications and OISS website: To Travel or Not To Travel The ability to re-enter the U.S. following travel abroad is considered a benefit of F-1 status. It is important that you comply with all immigration regulations and requirements. Failure to comply may lead to a loss of travel benefits. Be sure to make an appointment with OISS if: You and/or your family members need to apply for a new visa. Please discuss your travel plans with us prior to making final arrangements. Your I-20 has or is about to expire, or if any information on the form has changed (such as your major, source of funding, or degree level). Your passport is about to expire or has expired (passports must always be valid at least six months into the future). Documents Needed for Re-entering the U.S. Listed below are the documents needed for travel. It is also recommended that you carry these items whenever traveling within the U.S. An unexpired passport valid at least six months into the future; An unexpired I-20 with a travel signature less than one year old; An unexpired F-1 valid visa stamp for further entries into the United States (with the exception when traveling to Canada, Mexico or adjoining Islands); Proof of school enrollment in the form of a Certificate Letter from OISS (please allow one week for OISS to process your request) and Lehigh transcript from the Registrar s Office; and Proof of financial ability: documentation verifying your financial support. Page 21

24 Immigration Issues (This may include personal or family bank statements, affidavits of support, or copies of your fellowship or scholarship letter). Things You Need to Know About Your I-20: The travel signature on the third page of your I-20 is valid for a maximum of one year. (Signed by an OISS staff member please allow one week for OISS to process your request) You may use your I-20 to enter the U.S. as long as you are a continuing, full -time student and all the information on the form remains the same. If you are returning to the U.S. after a leave of absence and/or an absence of more than 5 months, you must obtain a new I-20 prior to re-entry. Contact OISS if this applies to you. Upon entry to the U.S., an immigration officer will issue an I-94 card to you that will indicate the date of entry and grant you F-1 status for duration of status (F-1 D/S). If your I-94 card indicates anything other than F-1 D/S, contact OISS immediately upon return. OISS recommends that you make photocopies of your travel documents (I- 20 and I-94 card) for safekeeping. If Your Visa Has Expired Meet with the OISS staff prior to finalizing your travel plans. Citizens of certain countries may find extraordinary delays due to recently implemented security measures. If you need to travel but your entry visa has expired, you must apply for a new visa from a U.S. Consulate/ Embassy. It is best to apply for a student/scholar visa in your home country. If you apply at a third country, expect processing delays. At the consulate/embassy, you should provide: 1. An unexpired passport; 2. A valid I-20 which has been signed for travel; 3. Proof of financial support; 4. Students must show proof of enrollment at Lehigh in the form of a transcript and a certificate letter from OISS; and Page 22

25 Immigration Issues 5. To better prepare, you may want to read the Department of State brochure on visa denials at: Travel to Canada, Mexico, or the Caribbean If you are an F-1 student, traveling to a contiguous territory (Canada or Mexico) and the adjacent islands in the Caribbean (except Cuba), you do NOT need to obtain a new visa to re-enter the U.S., with the exception of nationals of countries designated as state sponsors of terrorism (currently, Iran, Syria, Sudan, and Cuba). Some nationalities may have to obtain an entry visa to Canada. Check the website of Canadian Consulate in New York at To qualify for this privilege, you must: Presently be in valid F-1 student status. Have a valid I-20 in your possession, which has been signed for travel within last year Have an unexpired I-94 card with you (do NOT surrender it when you leave the U.S.) Have an unexpired passport IMPORTANT NOTE: If you are planning to travel to Canada/Mexico with the intent to apply for a new U.S. entry visa, please be aware that if the visa application has been refused, you will have to return directly to your home country from Canada or Mexico, even if your present visa is valid. The U.S. officials can cancel your valid visa. Have a previously-issued non-immigrant visa (even for a different nonimmigrant classification) Visiting one of the contiguous territories or adjacent islands for less than thirty (30) days. The adjacent islands are: Saint Pierre, Miquelon, the Dominican Republic, Haiti, Bermuda, the Bahamas, Barbados, Jamaica, the Windward and Leeward Islands, Trinidad, Martinique, other British, Page 23

26 Immigration Issues French, and Netherlands territory or possessions in or bordering on the Caribbean Sea. F-1 Students Traveling on OPT To re-enter the U.S. while on post-completion (after completing your degree) Optional Practical Training, you will need the following documents: an unexpired passport a valid F-1 visa stamp an I-20 that has been signed for travel by OISS (F-1 students must have their I-20s signed within six months.) an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) card issued by USCIS for F-1 students on practical training; You must have a job to return to the U.S. Please obtain a letter from your employer stating your job title, job description, begin and end dates (must fall within the practical training period), and verifying that your employer knows you are traveling and expects you to return to complete your job. Students without jobs may have problems re-entering the U.S. and should speak to OISS before making any travel plans. F-1 Employment Options This is a basic overview of options that F-1 students have for employment in the U.S. Planning is essential: some options, such as Economic Hardship Employment or Optional Practical Training, require applications to be completed and mailed to USCIS, which may take up to three months to process. Page 24

27 Immigration Issues OISS Workshops Students should attend an OISS F-1 Off-Campus Employment workshop (offered several times each year) before pursuing one of the off-campus employment options listed below. Students applying for post-completion Optional Practical Training should attend an F-1 Post- Completion Optional Practical Training workshop first. For a current workshop schedule, please check OISS website: Students who have attended the above workshops and wish to file a petition and/or have further questions should schedule an appointment with OISS staff during appointment hours. (Refer to page 8 for appointment hours) On-Campus Employment If you are an F-1 student, you are eligible to work on-campus as long as you meet the following eligibility criteria: You must be a full-time student in a Lehigh degree program You must have a valid SEVIS I-20 from Lehigh You must have a valid, unexpired passport You must have an I-94 card that is marked "F-1 D/S" Transfer F-1 students may begin to work on-campus at Lehigh once their transfer from the other U.S. institution is completed and have received their I- 20 from Lehigh. New incoming F-1 students also may begin to work on-campus as long as it is within the thirty days of the beginning date of their academic program. As long as you meet the above criteria, you may engage in on-campus employment. There is no "waiting period" before you are allowed to accept an on-campus job. You may NOT engage in on-campus employment if any of the following applies: You are not registered as a full-time student (or, if working during the summer term, you do not intend to register for the upcoming semester) You have graduated and do not intend to begin a new program at Lehigh Page 25

28 Immigration Issues in the next available semester You do not have valid documents as listed above On-Campus Restrictions: Hours and Locations Employment is limited to part-time positions (20 hours/week or less) during the school year; full-time positions (more than 20 hours) are permitted during official vacation periods i.e. spring break, pacing break, winter/summer vacation. Your employment may take place at any Lehigh office or department, or a commercial firm located at Lehigh that provides direct services to students (e.g., the Lehigh bookstore, the libraries or Wood Dining Services). Oncampus employment also includes graduate, research or teaching assistantships. In certain circumstances on-campus employment may include off-campus (non-lehigh) sites under "extended" on-campus employment. This applies if you are working at a non-lehigh site but you are being paid through a research grant or contractual agreement between your academic advisor and an outside firm or organization. The research project must be directly related to your studies and appropriate to your degree level, and your academic advisor must supervise your work. This option is available only to PhD students and requires an OISS letter of approval. To pursue this, OISS needs a letter from your advisor outlining the details. Note: If you are on an academic leave of absence or on academic suspension, you are not eligible to engage in on-campus employment. You may engage in on-campus employment only when you have resumed fulltime studies. Off-Campus Employment Options F-1 Economic Hardship Employment - for students who have suffered unexpected and unforeseen economic hardship due to circumstances beyond their control. F-1 International Organization Employment - for students who have been offered an internship with an international organization. F-1 Curricular Practical Training - for students with fieldwork requirements; Page 26

29 Immigration Issues internship electives built into the curriculum of their programs or if the job is considered an integral part of your program. The CPT approval is obtained at OISS. F-1 Optional Practical Training (Pre-Completion) - for students interested in pursuing employment experience in their field of study before completing their studies. Pre-Completion OPT applications can take up to three months for USCIS to process. F-1 Optional Practical Training (Post-Completion) - for students interested in pursuing employment in their field of study following completion of studies. F-1 students MAY NOT accept any employment offer that does not meet, and has not been approved for, one of the above classifications. Post-Completion OPT applications can take up to three months for USCIS to process. Off-campus employment of any kind cannot be pursued without the prior written authorization of either the OISS and/or USCIS. Engaging in employment without authorization is considered a serious violation of immigration regulations. For further information regarding the above options, please check OISS website: F-1 Program Extension As an F-1 student, you are granted a specific period of time to complete your degree requirements. This period of time is reflected in Section 5 of your Form I-20, which indicates your "completion date." If you are unable to finish your degree requirements by that date, you must apply for a program extension. Eligibility Criteria To qualify for a program extension, you must meet the following criteria: You must have completed a full course load every semester, and otherwise be in valid F-1 status Page 27

30 Immigration Issues You have valid and unavoidable academic reasons for needing more time to complete your program You must apply for a program extension within specified deadlines You must have sufficient funds to cover the remaining time needed to complete your requirements Deadlines: You must apply for a program extension before your I-20 expires. Late extension requests will not be accepted. F-1 Reinstatement Procedures As an F-1 student, you are expected to comply with certain basic rules and regulations. Your ability to study, work, and travel in and out of the U.S. depends on your compliance with these rules. Failure to comply - whether intentional or not - will lead to your falling "out of status," which terminates your eligibility for benefits such as employment or travel re-certification. If you fall out of status, you must seek reinstatement in order to return to lawful F-1 status. Causes for Reinstatement Reinstatement becomes necessary whenever it is determined that you have committed a violation of F-1 regulations and thereby have fallen out of status. Among the most common reasons that an F-1 student may fall out of status are the following: by not studying on a full-time basis or by failing to obtain prior OISS approval for part-time enrollment by not making normal, full-time progress toward degree completion by failing to apply for a program extension before the expiration of your I-20 if starting another degree level at Lehigh, by failing to obtain a new I-20 reflecting your change of program or degree level within 15 days of the start of your new program. if transferring to Lehigh to start a new degree program, by failing to obtain a new I-20 reflecting the transfer within 15 days of the start of your new program. Page 28

31 Immigration Issues Reinstatement is not possible if you engage in unauthorized employment, or if the violation of status took place more than five (5) months prior to your reinstatement application. Eligibility Criteria Reinstatement is possible only if you meet the following criteria: You are pursuing or intend to pursue a full course of study at Lehigh (you are not eligible to gain reinstatement if you have completed your program requirements). You have sufficient financial resources to register for a full course of study You can document that you fell out of status due to circumstances beyond your control, or that your failure to be reinstated would result in extreme personal hardship. You can document that the violation took place less than five months prior to the date of your reinstatement application. Note: You are not allowed to work while the reinstatement application is under review (this includes any type of assistantship). For reinstatement procedures, please contact OISS at intnl@lehigh.edu or call Maintaining Full-Time Status International students in F-1 status are required to register for and complete a full course load of a minimum of nine credits for graduate students per semester and twelve credits for undergraduate students per semester. Part-time enrollment must be approved by the OISS in advance, before registration is completed. If you are going to enroll on a part-time basis for any reason, you must obtain OISS approval. Failure to comply with this regulation may have severe consequences regarding your ability to stay in the U.S. to study or work. Therefore, it is absolutely essential that you register full-time or gain OISS approval for part-time study. Page 29

32 Immigration Issues Important Notes on "Full-Time Study for Graduates" Ordinarily, graduate students must register for and complete a minimum of nine credits every fall and spring semester in order to be considered full-time. However, graduate students may be considered as equivalent to full-time (i.e., has "full-time equivalency") with less than nine credits of registration if one of the following exception applies: You have fulfilled all coursework requirements and are working full-time on thesis or dissertation research Students who are granted full-time equivalency by their departments must be designated as "full-time" or "fully-certified" also by the University Registrar each semester, as reflected in Lehigh's Student Information System. Please consult OISS if you are unsure about your current enrollment designation. When is Part-Time Enrollment Allowed in relation to Immigration purposes? Part-time enrollment of less than nine credits for graduate students and twelve credits for undergraduate students per semester is permitted only in certain circumstances. You must receive approval from OISS FIRST before dropping a class, withdrawing, etc. OISS cannot grant approval for part-time enrollment retroactively. Part-time enrollment is permitted only if one of the following applies: It is your first semester in the U.S., and your department and ESL Office recommends part-time study in addition to English-language courses. You were placed at the wrong course level. You have unavoidable medical problems which require a temporary reduction in your course load. It is your last semester prior to graduation, and you need less than nine credits for graduate students, or twelve credits for undergraduate students, to satisfy your degree requirements. Please keep in mind that you must obtain approval for part-time enrollment for any of the above circumstances. You must enroll on a full-time basis if (a) you Page 30

33 Immigration Issues do not meet one of the above conditions or (b) if you do not have OISS approval for part-time enrollment. What happens if I do not get Part-Time Study Approval? If you are enrolled on a part-time basis but do not have OISS approval, you will lose the benefits of lawful student status and may even lose your eligibility to stay in the U.S. Failing to receive approval for part-time study will result in the following circumstances: Your eligibility to apply for on-campus employment or off-campus employment benefits, including optional practical training Your eligibility to receive OISS recertification for travel outside of the U.S. Students who are not in lawful student status may have to apply for reinstatement or depart the U.S. Moving? Change of Address? All non-u.s. citizens, including permanent residents and non-immigrant aliens, are required by law to inform the U.S. Department of Homeland Security of any changes to their local U.S. home address--not your university or department address. In addition, students in F-1 status must maintain a current local home address with Lehigh University. Report any change of local address within ten days of moving to OISS and update Banner. Please note that this long-standing requirement, once rarely enforced, is now strictly required by USCIS. Failure to comply may lead to a fine of up to $200, imprisonment for up to 30 days, or both. Consequently, within ten days of any change to your local address, you should do the following: Continuing F-1 students at Lehigh who change their address must: Notify OISS within ten days of moving and the new address will be entered into the SEVIS database within ten days of the move. Page 31

34 Immigration Issues Update your address in Banner F-1 Students on Post-Completion Optional Practical Training F-1 students who have completed their programs and are on postcompletion OPT MUST provide OISS with your current U.S. home address since you are still under Lehigh University s umbrella. J-1 Student / Scholar Keeping You Legal United States immigration law places responsibility upon the individual student to know and follow all relevant immigration regulations. Failure to comply with these regulations may have very severe consequences for your ability to study, seek employment, or even remain in the United States. Please read the list below carefully and contact OISS with any questions you may have regarding the following regulations. 1. Make sure that your immigration documents are valid or unexpired at all times. To do so, you must have: A valid foreign passport - for at least six months into the future; An I-94 card marked "J-1 D/S" and An unexpired DS-2019 that has been stamped by an USCIS inspector upon entry of the U.S. border or issued by an OISS immigration advisor in the case of transferring from another U.S. school. Page 32

35 Immigration Issues 2. Register for a full course load every semester. Undergraduate (BA/BS) students must always be registered at least 12 credits every semester; Graduate (MA/MS/MBA/PhD) students are ordinarily required to be registered nine credits per semester in order to be considered full-time. All students are required to make normal, full-time progress toward degree completion and to complete a degree within specified time periods. Extensions other than for medical or other unavoidable academic reasons are not permitted. Part-Time Enrollment. If you are only going to register on a part-time basis (less than twelve credits for undergraduates and less than nine credits for graduates) YOU MUST OBTAIN OISS APPROVAL BEFORE your registration is finalized. Note: Retroactive approval of part-time enrollment once registered is not possible. 3. Consult OISS prior to accepting on-campus or off-campus employment. Fulltime students in J-1 status may accept on-campus employment of no more than 20 hours per week during the school year or full-time during vacation periods (more than 20 hours per week) with OISS written authorization. You must receive approval before you begin working on or off-campus. 4. Report any change of address to OISS and USCIS within 10 days of your move. J-1 students are required to maintain a current local U.S. address and an overseas permanent address with OISS. 5. Apply for an extension of your DS-2019 before your documents expire if you need more time to complete your program. Apply for an extension of your DS-2019 at least 30 days prior to the expiration of your document. An extension request submitted after your DS-2019 has expired cannot be processed. Failure to complete your program of study on time or to obtain a timely program extension may constitute a violation of your non-immigrant status. 6. Contact OISS immediately if there are any changes to your DS-2019, or to your personal or academic situation. Examples of such changes include, but are not limited to the following: Page 33

36 Immigration Issues Change of name or citizenship; Change of school, major, or degree level; Withdraw or termination from program due to academic or medical reasons; Leaving the U.S. for research, study, or a leave of absence; Transferring to another institution in the U.S. MAINTAINING LEGAL STATUS IN THE UNITED STATES IS YOUR INDIVIDUAL RESPONSIBILITY. Keep updated about the latest changes in immigration regulations by checking the monthly OISS newsletter, notifications and OISS website: To Travel or Not To Travel The ability to re-enter the U.S. following travel abroad is considered a benefit of J-1 status. It is important that you comply with all immigration regulations and requirements. Failure to comply may lead to problems upon returning to the U.S. Be sure to make an appointment with OISS if: 1. You and/or your family members need to apply for a new visa. Please discuss your travel plans with us prior to making final arrangements. 2. Your DS-2019 has or is about to expire, or if any information on the form has changed (such as your major, source of funding, or degree level). 3. Your passport is about to expire or has expired (passports must always be valid at least six months into the future). 4. You plan to travel abroad and are a citizen of a country for which the U.S. requires additional security clearance. Documents Needed for Re-entering the U.S. Listed below are the documents needed for travel. It is also recommended that you carry these items whenever traveling within the U.S. An unexpired passport valid at least six months into the future; An unexpired DS-2019 with a travel signature less than one year old; An unexpired J-1 valid visa stamp for further entries into the United States (except when traveling to Canada, Mexico or adjoining Islands); Page 34