Visa | Services for International Students and Scholars

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Federal Government Updates for International Students and Scholars

May 24, 2026

Information for international students and scholars related to federal government updates and policies.

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H-1B Specialty Worker

H-1B Overview

The H-1B visa classification is for non-immigrant employees in a “specialty occupation,” where the position requires a specific degree and the employee has the specific degree (minimum of a bachelor’s degree in a specific field). The H-1B also has minimum wage requirements that must be met by the employing department and requires the filing of a Labor Condition Application (LCA) with the Department of Labor (DOL) prior to filing an H-1B petition with the USCIS (immigration service). Departments at UC Davis would usually sponsor an H-1B status for employees

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International Scholar Employment

Overview

Employment provisions for the visa categories that are most often encountered at UC Davis are:

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J-1 and J-2 Final Departure

Details for J-1 scholars who have finished their time at UC Davis.

J-1 Scholar Categories & Bars

UC Davis has authorization to issue DS-2019s in the “short-term scholar”, “research scholar/professor”, “specialist” and “non-degree student” categories for visitors who will conduct research, teach, observe, consult or demonstrate special skills.

J-1 Scholar 2-Year Residence Requirement

Certain J-1 Exchange Visitors are subject to the two-year home residency requirement, Section 212(e) of the U.S. Immigration and Nationality Act.

Current J-1 Scholars

Current J-1 Scholars can find information about travel both within and outside of the United States, instructions for submitting change of address notifications to SISS staff, and links to additional resources.

J-1 Scholar Check-In & Orientation

How to Get Started

When first arriving at UC Davis, J-1 scholars must check-in with SISS by completing our iGlobal check-in eForm. Scholars should refer to instructions provided to you with your SISS welcome packet. Timely check-in is required for SEVIS record validation and new J scholar orientation sign up. If you have questions, please email [email protected].

J-1 Scholar Arrival Checklist

What to do once you have arrived at UC Davis.

J-1 Exchange Visitor Program

The J-1 Exchange Visitor Program was developed by the United States government in conjunction with governments of countries around the world to serve as a forum for educational and cultural exchange. The program provides opportunities for thousands of students, scholars, and other academics to spend time in foreign countries learning skills and sharing their knowledge and culture.