J-1 Travel information
Travel outside the U.S.
Returning to the same program sponsor
Ensure to discuss your travel plan with your ASU host/hiring department and obtain any needed approval.
Documents needed when entering the U.S.:
- Valid passport at least 6 months into the future
- Valid J-1 visa (Canadians are exempt from the visa requirement)
- DS-2019 with Travel Signature
- ASU Invitation/offer letter
- Financial documentation (ASU offer letter or financial guarantees if unpaid J-1)
If you experience any difficulties during the immigration and customs process Monday through Friday between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. Arizona Time, please call the ISSC at +1 480-727-7125. If you experience any difficulties during the immigration and customs process outside the ISSC's business hours, please call ASU's 24/7 support line at +1 855-278-5080.
Returning to a different program sponsor
You must consult in advance with your current program sponsor about your proposed travel and transfer to a new program sponsor. Your program sponsor will be able to alert you to possible problems you may encounter. If the change is permissible, you must obtain a new Form DS-2019 from the new program sponsor to which you will transfer before you attempt to re-enter the U.S.
Travel within the U.S.
When traveling within the U.S., international faculty and scholars should be aware of the following:
- Transportation: Present your original immigration documents to establish identity at airports, train stations, bus stations, vehicle checkpoints and other transportation hubs within the U.S. We also recommend you carry with you your ASU Department Invitation/offer letter & financial documentation.
- Border Patrol Checkpoints within 100 miles from the U.S. Border: Expect that Customs and Border Protection may set up checkpoints to stop and question travelers regarding their citizenship or immigration status when passing through areas close to international borders.
- Checkpoints on the interstates to southern California and I-10 south of Tucson are common.
Further information about inspection stations are listed on the Border Patrol Sectors | U.S. Customs and Border Protection webpage.