Immigration Documents and Visa Application Process
DS-2019
- The Form DS-2019 or “Certificate of Eligibility for Exchange Visitor Status” defines the nature and length of your program, as well as how you are financing your stay.
- This document is required to be able to apply for a visa to enter the United States.
- The DS-2019 will be generated by RPI. Students will receive an email with instructions on how to access their DS-2019.
- Upon receipt, check the accuracy of your DS-2019 and contact our office if any changes need to be made.
Form I-901
Form I-901 is used to pay a mandatory one-time fee of $220 required by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to fund the operation of the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS).
- After receipt and review of your DS-2019, visit www.fmjfee.com and complete Form I-901.
- The SEVIS fee should be paid directly to DHS at least 3 business days prior to your visa interview. Make sure to keep receipt of payment.
- When completing Form I-901 be sure to write your name exactly as it appears on your DS-2019. This must match your passport.
- Your SEVIS Identification Number can be found at the top right corner of your DS- 2019 Form. It starts with an “N,” followed by a 10-digit number. The Program Number can be found in Box 2 of your DS-2019.
J Visa & Form DS-160
- A visa is a document used to enter the United States. It specifies the following:
- The status in which you may apply to enter the U.S.
- The dates during which you can enter the U.S.
- The number of times you may enter the U.S.
- Any applicable restrictions or conditions
- After paying the SEVIS fee, visit U.S. Department of State website to complete the Nonimmigrant Visa Application Form DS-160 and pay the visa application fee.
- Schedule your visa interview; wait times can be found here.
- The following documents are typically required at the visa interview appointment:
- DS-2019 Form
- Passport valid for at least six months beyond your period of stay in the United States.
- Proof of financial support for living expenses during the period of your exchange.
- Proof of I-901 SEVIS fee payment
- Acceptance letter from RPI Education Abroad.
- Form DS-160 confirmation and proof of fee payment. Check with the consulate for the fee amount and method of payment.
- Passport-sized photo
- Additional documents may be required. Detailed guidance and FAQs can be found on the U.S. Department of State website.
Canadian Citizens
- Canadian citizens do not require a J-1 visa to enter the US in J-1 status and can enter the US with a DS-2019 form.
- Proof of financial support and the I-901 SEVIS payment receipt are required.
Immigration Procedures Upon Arrival in the U.S.
- You may enter the United States up to 30 days prior to the start date on your DS-2019 Form.
- At the U.S. port of entry, you will be asked to present your DS-2019 Form, passport with visa stamp, and SEVIS I-901 fee payment receipt.
- Carry your immigration documents in your carry-on bag and not your checked luggage.
- Examine the stamp in your passport before leaving customs to verify that it has been correctly marked “J-1” and “D/S.” These markings indicate that you have entered in J-1 immigration status for the duration of your status (“D/S”).
I-94 Record
- Your arrival in the U.S., as well as subsequent departures and arrivals during the exchange period will be documented on your I-94.
- It is important to make sure that the information regarding your arrival is accurate. If not, it will need to be corrected. Check your form as soon as possible after your arrival and contact the EA if there are errors.
- Your i-94 record can be accessed after your arrival in the U.S.: https://i94.cbp.dhs.gov/I94/#/home
Note: Visa requirements, fees, and consular services are subject to change. While the EA/ISSS may offer guidance on the visa process, it is the responsibility of the student to remain informed on visa procedures, to apply for and procure a visa as required, and to maintain valid status at all times while in the U.S.
