Sponsors and scholars should be aware and review the following other considerations.
Other Important Considerations for Scholars
Regulatory, Research Compliance, and Export Control (Pre-Arrival)
The University screens prospective scholars from certain countries of concern and/or sensitive or critical areas of research based on federal regulations and compliance requirements, including export controls. Screening is conducted via a national search data based called Visual Compliance, and should a prospective scholar's screening result in a negative "hit" or flag, the prospective scholars file will be referred to UAlbany's Office of Regulatory and Research Compliance. This office, in consultation with the respective academic department and other units, will make a determination of any limitations in access and enforcement necessary regarding research activity at UAlbany.
The Office of Enterprise Risk Management and Compliance also has its own policies and procedures around certain compliance issues that may impact invitation and hosting of international scholars. These include but are not limited to research/study related to the Iran Threat Reduction and Syrian Human Rights.
These and other scholars may be subject to not only access limitations and other restrictions but also delays in the invitation and visa process conducted overseas at the U.S. consulate where the prospective scholar applies for the respective J-1 visa. In particular cases, the Consular Official investigates whether there is a country-based concern and/or a past, current or future research area is a risk to national security. If the Consular Official determines a concern exists, the prospective scholar's application may be referred for administrative processing (Visa Mantis). In general, this review may take several weeks or months depending on the case. For more information about consular administrative processing please visit the Department of State website.
Additional time should be considered when planning to invite an international scholar should that individual be subject to UAlbany or Department of State additional screening and investigation.
Scholar Institutional Transfer (After Arrival)
If a scholar intends to transfer to another institution to continue a J-1 program, please contact Tara Evans (tevans3@albany.edu) before the J-1 program expires to request a SEVIS transfer (if eligible).
J-2 Dependent Information and Resources
Please review information for inviting J-2 dependents, including resources for J-2 dependents.
Disclaimer:
The information contained in this web site/form is provided as a service to international students, faculty and staff at the University at Albany. It does not constitute legal advice. We try to provide useful information, but we make no claims, promises or guarantees about the accuracy, completeness or adequacy of the information contained in or linked to this web site or any associated site or form.
Neither the University at Albany nor ISSS is responsible for any errors or omissions contained in this website, or for the results obtained from the use of this information. Nothing provided herein should be used as a substitute for the advice of competent legal counsel; students may wish to consult an immigration attorney on the specifics of their case as needed.