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Immigration Services

J-1 Scholars Check-In and Arrival Process

Online Check-In

J-1 Exchange Visitors must complete the check-in process online; there is no need to visit the Office of Immigration Services in person. Complete and submit the documents listed below via email to is@clemson.edu. You must also include documentation for any J-2 dependents as part of the check-in process.

Processing time: 3-5 business days

Required Documents to Submit

  • Copy of J-1 visa (include your entry stamp)
  • Copy of DS-2019 with consular notes
  • Completed IS-206 form;
  • Proof of insurance coverage and benefits summary
  • Completed IS-205 (PDF) with a valid U.S. address
  • Electronic I-94 record

The J-1 Arrival Process

  1. Complete the check-in requirements within 15 days of your DS-2019 program start date.
  2. Show proof of insurance that meets J-1 requirements.
  3. Allow 3-5 business days to receive your Clemson University ID number.
  4. Non-paid scholars will receive an email with a Clemson ID number and a letter to take to the TigerOne ID Services Office.
  5. Non-paid scholars must pay a $30 fee for the TigerOne card.

Required J-1 Orientation

It is essential to have all the tools you need to succeed while you are here. We want to help you and serve as a primary resource during your studies. We require all J-1 scholars to attend orientation after arriving in the U.S. Orientation covers housing, transportation, health insurance, maintaining legal status, and other helpful information.

Sign up upon arrival.

If you have any additional questions, please contact us at is@clemson.edu.

Additional Resouces

The Office of International Services has created a list of FAQs for common questions on visas, housing, transportation and more. We’re here to support you every step of the way. Welcome to Clemson!

  • When should I complete the SEVIS Check-In?

    Once you arrive in the U.S, you are required by federal regulations to complete the SEVIS checkin process within 30 days of your program start date, which is listed in Section 3 of the DS-2019 Certificate of Eligibility for the J-1 Visa.

  • Why do I need to complete the SEVIS Check-In?

    J-1 scholars in initial status are ineligible for such benefits as applying for a Social Security card, starting employment, or obtaining a SC Driver License. Only are you eligible for these benefits when the check-in process is completed, and the SEVIS record is validated to Active.

  • What type of insurance coverage do I need to purchase, and which insurers are approved?

    If you haven’t done so already, you must purchase health insurance once you arrive in the U.S. Proof of your insurance coverage is required to complete your SEVIS Check-In. The period of required coverage is the actual duration of your program as recorded in your SEVIS record as well as listed in the “Program Begin Date,” and “Program End Date,” on your DS2019(s). If you have dependents (J-2) accompanying you, they are also required to have proof of health insurance coverage. The insurance plan you purchase must meet the requirements of the U.S. Department of State regulations. Please view a list of approved insurers (PDF) for more information.

  • Where can I go to apply for my driver's license?

    You will need to visit the South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles (SCDMV) in Seneca, South Carolina, in order to apply for your permit or driver’s license. The Seneca DMV’s physical address, business hours, and contact information are listed on their website and the International Customer’s Checklist.

  • Do I need an SSN card?

    If you are paid by the University, then you are eligible for a U.S. Social Security Number (SSN). If you are not paid by the University but would like to apply for a SC driver license, you will need to obtain a denial letter, which states you are currently ineligible for employment, from the Social Security Administration Office by applying for a Social Security Number. For more information on applying for a Social Security Number, please visit the Social Security Administration website.