J-1 Program Transfer

Transferring a J-1 Visa Record

J-1 Exchange Visitors may transfer from one program sponsor to another if the purpose of the transfer is to complete the academic objective for which he or she was admitted. The transfer process requires careful coordination between 5 parties, with the scholar taking responsibility for the success of the transfer:

  1. the Scholar
  2. the current institution’s host department
  3. the current institution’s International Office
  4. the new institution’s host department
  5. the new institution’s International Office.

Determining the Start Date at transfer institution

The start date at the new institution must be the day immediately following the last day at the prior institution. Gaps between program sponsorship (e.g., for a "vacation") are not allowed.

Caution: International Travel While a Transfer is Pending

While the transfer is pending, travel outside the U.S. is strongly discouraged. If emergency travel is necessary, consult  your ISSO adviser immediately for assistance.

Steps to transfer to UCSF

Host department responsibilities

  1. Works with HR generalist to submit a ticket for hire
  2. Attach J-1 Transfer In Form to the ticket

Exchange visitor responsibilities

  1. Inform your current International Office of your intention to transfer to UCSF.
  2. Provide UCSF's academic department with copies of your current and prior DS-2019 forms.
  3. Remain at the current institution while actively participating in your program objective until the effective date of transfer.
  4. Complete your Mandatory J-1 Check in upon transfer to UCSF.
  5. Register to attend a mandatory J-1 Orientation.
  6. Check in at your Human Resources (HR) Service Provider at UCSF on the effective date of transfer. 

Steps to transfer out of UCSF

  1. Scholar works with UCSF department and international office at new institution to complete a Transfer Out Form
  2. Scholar submits the completed transfer out form to ISSO at least 1 month before planned transfer date
  3. Scholar maintains appointment at UCSF until the effective date of transfer
  4. Scholar reports to international office at new university to collect the DS-2019 at the first date of the program transfer