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Vice Chancellor for Health Sciences VCHS
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  3. Academic Resource Center
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  5. Visa Expectations & Timeline

Visa Expectations & Timeline

As an international scholar, you will primarily be sponsored on a J-1 visa. Depending on the nature of your appointment, alternative visa types may be considered, provided they align with university policies. For detailed information on visa categories, please explore the following links: 

Visa Application Process

The visa application process begins once you have received an official UCSD appointment letter. An Academic Resource Analyst (ARC) will assist you through the following steps: 

  1. Invitation to Visa Application Portal: You will receive an automatic email with your login credentials to access our online visa application portal. 
  2. Scholar Submission: Log into the portal to submit the required information and documentation. This information is crucial for our International Center to issue you a DS-2019 or file your employment-based petition with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. Please note that incorrect information could affect the application and result in additional fees to correct. 
  3. ARC Review and Submission: After your submission, your ARC analyst will collaborate with your UCSD sponsoring department to complete and submit your application to our International Center for final review. You will then receive a Visa Services Recharge Form to pay applicable fees for the issuance of your visa documentation. 
  4. International Center Review: An immigration advisor at our International Center will acknowledge receipt of your application and may follow up with you if they have any questions. 
  5. Visa Issuance: For J-1 visas, our International Center will issue an electronic DS-2019. For H-1B and other visa types, they will email a copy of your approval notice. 
  6. Visa Application: If required, apply for your visa at your local U.S. Embassy/Consulate and prepare for your arrival.  

Processing Times

Processing times begin once our International Center receives your visa application (Step 4): 

  • J-1 requests: 15 business days (regular) or 5 business days (with rush fee). 
  • H-1B requests: 9-12 months (regular) or 2-3 months (with premium processing). 

Visa Extensions or Amendments for Current Scholars

Any changes to your current appointment must be approved before altering your immigration status. Please contact your UCSD sponsoring department, which will collaborate with ARC to modify your appointment and submit your visa extension or amendment request to the International Center. 

Need Assistance?

If you have questions or need assistance regarding visa expectations or timelines, please contact your UCSD sponsoring department. They will facilitate a connection with ARC for support and guidance.