Out of Country Designation Request

J-1 Out of Country Designation Request

This request should be used by J-1 Research Scholars and Professors that will be abroad for more than 30 days.

U.S. Department of State regulations state that on average more than 30 days spent outside the U.S. can represent a break in program activity and can have negative implications to an immigration record and J-1 program. 

J-1 Research Scholars and Professors are permitted to be abroad for work/personal travel/etc. for more than 30 days, if an Out of Country designation is added to their SEVIS record. Failure to notify OIA that you will be outside the U.S. for more than 30 days may result in delays/issues when you return to the U.S. Additionally, if you have J-2 dependents they are required to travel with you.

While immigration may permit J-1 holders to be abroad for 30 or more days, it may not be within UChicago department/university policy. Please be sure you discuss your time abroad with your HRP as time spent outside the U.S. may have implications to your immigration status, employment, and/or taxes. 

Request Process:

To request this designation to be added to your SEVIS record please email your J-1 adviser using the subject line 'J-1 Out of Country Request (YOUR NAME)' and include the following:

• Departure date

• Re-Entry date

• Location name

• Complete/full address of where you will be abroad:

  • This address will be listed in the SEVIS system. Failure to include a complete address will result in the delay of your request.

• Attach a copy of letter/email from PI/Supervisor approving/confirming your time abroad

• Attach a copy of letter/email from your unit Human Resources Professional (HRP) confirming unit approved your time abroad

We are unable to process partial requests. As such, please be sure your request is submitted with all required information as stated above or risk delay in your request being processed.