Check-in and orientation

Check-in process for J-1 scholars

Upon arrival to Columbia, please send an email to your adviser . You will receive an email with the immigration check in instructions. Please complete the required steps and notify the adviser once you are finished. You will receive a separate email with the J-1 scholar orientation schedule. Please be sure to join the session. It is a mandatory requirement for J-1 visiting scholars.

J-1 scholar orientation

Orientation will provide you and any accompanying family members (spouse or children) information to assist you in settling into the local community. Orientation will cover topics like:

  • Important documents
  • Maintaining your immigration status
  • Health care and emergency assistance
  • Insurance plans that meet the requirements for J-1 visitors, including medical evacuation and repatriation
  • Culture and life in the United States
  • Local community resources (public transportation, medical centers, schools, libraries, recreation centers, banks, etc.)