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International Scholars

DU hosts 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 international scholars in acquiring the appropriate immigration status to visit, work, or conduct research at DU.

Common Immigration Statuses

The two most common immigration statuses used for international scholarsat 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 status in the U.S. or apply for visa at U.S. embassy abroad. May change status in the U.S. or apply for visa at U.S. embassy abroad.
Duration Up to 6 years for all H-1B employment, given in 3 year increments. Up to 3 years (6 months for short-term scholars).

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 contact Laura Buhs at or 303-871-7861.

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.

International Students in J-1 status may be authorized for Academic Training to work at DU. J-1 Academic Training is authorized by the J-1 student’s program sponsor.