Maintaining Your Scholar Immigration Record

Scholars are required to maintain their immigration status while at CSU.  The specifics of maintaining status are slightly different depending on an individual’s immigration classification.  In general, however, status is maintained by engaging in the primary activity that brought you to CSU, following employment guidelines, not working off campus without authorization, updating your address as appropriate with the University, and maintaining the validity of your immigration documents.  Use the links below to find out more information about how to maintain your immigration record.

H-1B Status Holders

Immigration requirements:

  • Please do not make any changes or additions to your employment without consulting an advisor in International Programs for proper procedures.
  • Work for another employer is not allowed prior to additional H-1B paperwork being filed with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services by the other employer.
  • Reimbursements for travel, room and board are permitted, but honoraria from non-CSU entities are not permitted under H-1B regulations.
  • Unpaid leave at the employer’s request is not permitted for individuals employed in H-1B status. For voluntary unpaid leave requests made by you, please consult an advisor in International Programs to ensure the leave does not negatively impact your immigration status.
  • If you require an H-1B extension in the future, please ensure that the extension paperwork is begun by your department at least six months prior to the expiration of your current H-1B status.
    • Driver’s license rules require you to present a valid H-1B approval notice in order to renew your license, so late extension requests could result in loss of driving privileges.
    • Traveling outside of the U.S. also becomes a challenge while an extension petition is pending.

J-1 Status Holders

Your immigration requirements include:

  • Keeping your DS-2019 and passport valid
  • Engaging only in appropriate activities for your J-1 category
  • Conducting program activities at the location listed on your DS-2019
  • Maintaining employment only with authorization
  • Maintaining required health insurance coverage for the duration of your J-1 program
  • Reporting address changes within 10 days

TN Status Holders

Immigration requirements:

  • Please do not make any changes or additions to your employment without consulting an advisor in International Programs for proper procedures.
  • Work for another employer is not allowed prior to additional TN paperwork being filed with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services by the other employer or travel and re-entry.
  • Reimbursements for travel, room and board are permitted, but honoraria from non-CSU entities are not permitted under TN regulations.
  • If you require an TN extension in the future, please ensure that the extension paperwork is begun by your department at least six months prior to the expiration of your current TN status if you will not be traveling and re-entering the U.S. for the extension.