J-1 Scholar Information
Essential information for both Exchange Scholars on J-1 Visas and Prospective Academic Departments planning to sponsor J-1 Scholars at UNO
J-1 Scholar Categories
Research Scholar
These scholars come primarily for research at our university. They may also teach, observe, or do consulting related to a research project at research institutions.
Minimum Program Duration: 3 weeks; Maximum Duration: 5 years
Professor
An individual who comes to the university primarily to teach, lecture, observe or consult. Professors in the J-1 category shall not be candidates for tenure track positions. This category also does not permit the J-1 Professor to have been in the U.S. on a J visa during any part of the last 12 months preceding the start of the new position.
They may not have been in the US in the same position (or Research Scholar category) within the last 24 months. The only exception is if the Professor/Researcher is transferring from another U.S. institution.
3 weeks; Maximum Duration: 5 years
Short-Term Scholar
Short-Term Scholars are professors, research scholars, or persons with similar education or accomplishments. These individuals come to the U.S. to observe, lecture, consult, train, or demonstrate special skills at research institutions and other similar institutions.
Minimum Program Duration: None; Maximum Program Duration: 6 months (no extensions permitted)
Students
UNO also can bring in both degree seeking and non-degree seeking students in as part of exchange institution agreements on J visas. (See Exchange Students)
J-1 Scholar Important Resources
English Proficiency Form - for the J-1 Scholar application process in iGlobal
Know your Rights by Department of State
Welcome Brochure from The Exchange Visitor Program
Waiver of the Two Year Home Rule 212.3
Nebraska Driver's License - Omaha: Be sure to bring your passport,I-20 or DS 2019, I-94 form, and two letters postmarked with your address at least two days after UNO’s SEVIS registration. For more information and current fees, visit http://www.dmv.nebraska.gov/
Omaha Schools, Hospitals, and Businesses
Scholars: Here's Where You Can Pay the I-901 SEVIS Fee
Regulation requires all prospective F and J students and scholars to pay the I-901 Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) Fee before the U.S. Department of State issues a student visa. Read this Study in the States blog to learn more about potential scams and where to properly pay the I-901 SEVIS Fee.
Insurance Policy
Failure to comply jeopardizes UNO’s ability to sponsor the J-1 Program and could result in revocation of J-1 status for the participant and the loss of UNO’s J-1 program designation rights.
J-1 Scholar Insurance Requirement:All UNO J-1 participants and dependents must be covered by specific major medical health insurance, emergency medical evacuation, and repatriation insurance for the duration of their program. The U.S. Department of State lists some minimum amounts but UNO recommends additional insurance coverage. Failure to comply with the insurance requirement upon arrival can lead to termination of the exchange visitor’s J-1 status. All exchange visitors (J-1) and any accompanying spouse and dependent(s) may also be subject to the requirements of the Affordable Care Act.
Insurance Information for UNO's J-1 scholars
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J-1 UNO Employees: All UNO benefits eligible J-1 scholars and any dependents must enroll in UNO's group health insurance through the benefits program and purchase a supplemental rider for medical evacuation and repatriation that meets the U.S. Department of State's requirements. Both insurance policies must begin upon arrival.
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When choosing the UNO plan, there are three options. Choose the basic or high option. The low option does not meet U.S. Department of State requirements; this is due to the stipulation that the deductible is not higher than $500. More information can be found here: Health Benefits (nebraska.edu)
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For the supplemental rider for medical evacuation and repatriation, the following plan meets the requirements: Choose Your Plan: Global Travel Plus.
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J-1 Visiting Scholars (Research and Short-Term): All visiting scholars who are not employed by UNO are required to purchase one of the following plans. J-2 dependents who are enrolled in a U.S. based policies that meet Department of State requirements may be reviewed for a waiver, but are not guaranteed acceptance.
- Preferred Policy: UNO UnitedHealthCare Voluntary Policy: https://www.unomaha.edu/student-life/wellness/health-services/insurance-policy.php (For scholars and dependents and provides coverage for pre-existing conditions). Here is a summary of the coverage.
- Acceptable Option: International Student Insurance:https://www.internationalstudentinsurance.com/schools/university-of-nebraska-omaha-scholars.php (Budget, Elite, or Select Plans only) Dependents are not included on these plans-see website for referral.
The Department of State Minimum requirements are listed here:
How to Administer a Program - BridgeUSAProgram Sponsors | BridgeUSA (state.gov)