Welcome Back and Reminders for Maintaining Legal Status
As we start a new year and new semester, we want to remind you that OIE is here to help you understand the rules and regulations of your F-1 or J-1 status in the U.S. As we are in a changing immigration environment, it’s particularly important for you to pay attention and follow immigration rules. Here are some details and resources to assist you with maintaining your status:
Maintaining Legal Immigration Status
You are responsible for maintaining your own immigration status. Please review the Maintaining Status section on our website for detailed guidance. Make sure you understand what activities are permitted while you are in the U.S. and keep your immigration documents accurate and up to date. Be sure to pay attention to the expiration dates of your immigration documents.
Full-time Enrollment Requirement
F-1 and J-1 students are required to enroll full-time and attend classes in person each semester (including summer, if required by your academic program). Visit the OIE website for more information on enrollment requirements.
Change of Address
If you move, you are required to update your "Off-Campus Residence" in within 10 days of moving. Reminder: your "Permanent" address in SIO must be outside the U.S.
Employment Authorization Information
All F-1 students require authorization before beginning any type of off-campus employment. Work without authorization is a federal violation and will put you at risk of losing your immigration status. Learn more about employment authorization and requirements.
All J-1 students require authorization before beginning any type of employment, on-campus or off-campus. Work without authorization is a federal violation and will put you at risk of losing your immigration status. Learn more about employment authorization and requirements.
Note: working or volunteering for start-ups or starting your own business may be a violation of F-1/J-1 status. Make sure you have the proper employment authorization before engaging in any activity that may be viewed by immigration authorities as "employment."
Travel Information and Resources
If you will be traveling internationally, we recommend following OIE's travel guidance to know which documents to travel with in your carry-on. We continue to urge caution about international travel if you need to apply for a visa. F-1/J-1 students may remain in the U.S. if their visa sticker has expired but they have a valid I-20/DS-2019.
Beware of Scams
International students across the U.S. are frequently targeted by scam phone calls pretending to be government agencies, police, or immigration officials. These callers may demand money, personal information or threaten legal action.
Real government officials will never call you asking for these things. Please review OIE's posted information about protecting yourself from scams.
Our team is here to help you throughout your educational journey at 麻豆村, so please let us know if you have questions not covered on our website. You may contact our office by phone at 412-268-5231 or oie@andrew.cmu.edu. For complex questions or problems, with an OIE advisor. We hope you have a good semester!