A J-1 may request to transfer from one designated J-1 Exchange Visitor program to another designated program provided the J-1 time does not exceed the maximum permitted by their J-1 category. J-1 scholars intending to transfer to another program should confirm their transfer eligibility by discussing their plans with the Responsible Officer (RO)/Alternate Responsible Officer of both J-1 sponsoring programs . The transfer is processed through an update in the J-1 scholar's SEVIS record and must be completed prior to the end date as noted on the form DS-2019.
J-1 scholars transferring to Yale need to be sure they have time to clear the Yale new employee background check (if applicable; please refer to Yale policy on what type of appointment requires a background check) before the date of transfer in SEVIS.
J-1 scholars who have a Yale appointment and who are currently in the U.S. in J-1 status must complete the Transfer In Verification Form and attach it to their OISS Connect account (they will receive login information from their hosting department at Yale).
All new scholars must report to OISS within 15 days of your transfer release date in order to complete the transfer. If on Yale payroll, the scholar must report at latest on the hire date. They are also required to complete a Form I-9 with the Employee Services by presenting a new DS-2019 issued by Yale OISS.
Please be note: Under U.S. Department of State policy, individuals who hold J status who travel internationally after transferring to a new J program will need a new J visa before returning to the United States under the sponsorship of the new program, even if the current J visa is still valid. For this reason we strongly recommend individuals do not travel internationally within the short time frame of the transfer process.
