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Pre-Arrival Checklist

  1. Make sure your passport is valid for at least 6 months after your start date. If any dependents are coming with you, their passports should be valid for 6 months, too.

  2. Gather the required documents and schedule an appointment at the nearest US embassy or consulate (except citizens of Canada or Bermuda). Learn more about getting your visa >>

  3. Attend your visa interview and follow the consulate's instructions for waiting for your visa. Interview tips >>

  4. After you receive your visa, make travel arrangements. Let your department and ISSS know what day you will get here. If you are unable to enter the US by your start date, please notify ISSS as soon as possible.

  5. Get copies of important medical and dental records, x-rays, and prescriptions written in generic terms for you and any accompanying dependents.

  6. Get copies of financial documents that show how you will be supported while you're at Emory. You might be asked for these at the US port of entry.

  7. Arrange for finances to cover your costs during your first month in the US. We recommend that you have ready access to $2,500.

  8. Arrange for housing or temporary housing. If you are living off campus and you don't have housing, be prepared to stay in a hotel for a few nights.

Depending on your visa status, there are a few more things you should do before you get here.

J-1 Exchange Visitors

  1. Make sure your personal information on your DS-2019 form is correct. If any dependents are coming with you, each of them should have their own DS-2019.

  2. Pay the SEVIS I-901 fee at least 3 days before your consular interview. Print the receipt, and keep a copy for your records.

  3. Review the J-1 health insurance requirements. As an exchange visitor, you and any accompanying J-2 dependents are legally required to carry health insurance while you are in the US. You can expect to pay about $100-200 per month for insurance. If you don’t purchase adequate health insurance, your J-1 program will be terminated.

  4. Read the Exchange Visitor Program Welcome Brochure and the Know Your Rights: Wilberforce pamphlet as they contain important information from the US Department of State.

  5. Review the J-1 Scholar's Guide to Emory. It contains important information relavant to new J-1 scholars.

  6. If you are sponsored by an organization other than Emory, let them know about your plans.

H-1B and O-1 scholars

  1. Check your I-797 to make sure all your personal information is correct.

TN scholars

  1. Check on the current fee for your TN stamp.

  2. Canadian citizens: Apply for TN status at the port of entry. Bring all the required documentation.

  3. Mexican citizens: Attend your consular interview and follow their instructions for waiting for your visa.