International Scholars
DU hosts students, researchers, faculty, and staff from all over the world each year. Our international visitors are valued members of the DU community, and advisors in International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS) are available to assist departments and scholars in helping international visitors acquire the appropriate immigration status to work, study, and conduct research at DU.
Common Immigration Statuses
The two most common immigration statuses used for employees at the University are H-1B and J-1. Theses statuses are distinguished by their purpose and intent. H-1B status is used primarily for employment and may carry an intention to acquire U.S. permanent residency. By contrast, J-1 status is used for cultural exchange between the United States and a foreign government and explicitely carries non-immigrant intent.
H-1B |
J-1 |
|
| Purpose | Temporary professional employment. | Temporary exchange collaboration. |
| Intent | Return home or may become a permanent resident. | Return home. May be subject to 212(e) home residency requirement. |
| Process | Petition filed by DU with DOL and USCIS. May change staus in the U.S. or apply for visa at U.S. embassy abroad. | DS-2019 Certificate of Eligibility issued by DU. Must apply for visa at U.S. embassy abroad. |
| Duration | Up to 3 years (6 months for short-term scholars). | Up to 6 years for all H-1B employment, given in 3 year increments. |
Other Immigration Statuses
The University may sometimes bring international visitors to DU in other immigration statuses. ISSS can help determine the most appropriate immigration status for the type of activity the scholar will engage in at the University. For more information about visas and immigration status, please visit the Department of State's webpage on Visa Types for Temporary Visitors.
Citizens of Canada and Mexico
The TN visa may be used for citizens of Canada or Mexico who hold certain educational and processional qualifications and who will be employed in a profession on the NAFTA list. Canadian citizens can generally apply for the TN visa at a U.S. Port of Entry with the required documentation. Mexican citizens must apply for the TN visa at a U.S. embassy or consulate outside the United States.
International Students
International students in F-1 status who have been approved for Optional Practical Training (OPT) may also be employed at DU. OPT authorizes F-1 students to engage in up to 12 months of full-time employment in their field of study. The institution where the student completed his or her program remains responsible for meeting federal reporting requirements on the student, including site of employment.
