Program Completion and Termination

Ending a Program – Departure Reports


An exchange visitor must complete all program and work related activities as of the program end date on the DS-2019. The exchange visitor has an additional 30 days after the official end date to depart the country. This grace period of 30 days is meant to allow time to prepare for departure, travel and engage in cultural exchange activities.

If for any reason, an exchange visitor plans to finish the program before the actual end date on the DS-2019, s/he must inform the hosting department and the Office of International Students and Scholars (ISS). This is important as SEVIS records may need to be adjusted. This may affect future applications and eligibility for J-1 status.
Overstaying one’s visa (i.e. program end date + 30-day grace period) is a SERIOUS immigration violation that almost always has long-term consequences. Any future visa applications are likely to be denied, regardless of the visa classification or purpose of visit to the USA.

When preparing for the completion of a program and stay, the hosting department should prepare a Departure Report and submit it to ISS. Exchange visitors should finalize all accounts and outstanding obligations or commitments. Failure to do so could result in being classified as ineligible for reentry to the USA. Here is a check list of reminders:

  • Departure Report
  • Visit to ISS Office to check on SEVIS record & Closeout
  • Bursar Account
  • Bank Accounts
  • Rent/Deposit Return
  • Utilities – Close accounts/obtain deposits
  • Provide forwarding addresses & Contact information to University, ISS, etc.
  • Supply Post Office with Change of Address Form
  • If employed, notify former employers of new address (necessary for tax or payroll documents)
  • Check final payment data – forwarding address for check/direct deposit
  • Submit final reports/documents
  • Request letters of recommendation

 

Terminating an Exchange Visitor - Program Violations


If, for any reason, an exchange visitor violated the regulations for the J-1 Exchange Visitor Program and immigration status, his/her SEVIS record may be “terminated” immediately. Terminated exchange visitors cannot apply for reinstatement, extensions of stay, changes of category, or any other benefit. They are required to depart the country as their immigration status is no longer valid.

Terminations reasons are as follows:

  • Conviction of a Crime
  • Disciplinary Action
  • Engaging in unauthorized employment
  • Failure to engage in or pursue exchange visitor program activities
  • Failure to submit change of current address within 10 days
  • Failure to maintain health insurance
  • Involuntary suspension from employment
  • Other
  • Violation of Exchange Visitor Program regulation
  • Violation of Sponsor rules – OSU policies and regulations

Special note: Becoming a burden to the state as a non-immigrant is unacceptable. You are advised not to accept State or Federal aid or benefits for which non-immigrants are not eligible.