Visa Transfer of Sponsorship

How to Transfer a J-1 Visa to Stanford Sponsorship from Another Academic Institution

Often a postdoctoral scholar will have J-1 sponsorship at another academic institution. This sponsorship can be transferred to Stanford as long as:

  1. There is no change in status

  2. The general eligibility requirements are met

  3. There is no break in training program or service for the duration of all J1 sponsorship

  4. The postdoc has not exceeded the five year allowable J1 sponsorship period. 

A complete Appointment Package for University or Med School scholars is required if this is a new appointment as a postdoctoral scholar to Stanford. An on-line visa request (DS-2019) must be completed and submitted to Bechtel for approval by the Office of Postdoctoral Affairs ONLY after a complete appointment package or CV and signed offer letter has been received in the the Office of Postdoctoral Affairs.

  1. Log on to the internet

  2. go to site http://www.stanford.edu/dept/icenter/iap66form/instructions.html (SUNet ID required) Use the PURPLE box at the bottom of that page to start your visa request.

  3. Carefully fill in the blanks, checking spelling of names and the dates

  4. After filling out the form, at the end use SEND to send the form through the Office of Postdoctoral Affairs. Our office will approve the request and forward to Bechtel.

Please note that Lynn Kroner or Brian Groves at the Bechtel International Center is the key contact person for processing J-1 visas (new, extensions and transfers). Lynn or Brian can be reached via email at foreign.scholars@stanford.edu or by phone at (650) 725-7400. Bechtel also has a collection of Frequently Asked Questions About Visas.Bechtel I-Center staff will contact the Department Administrator when the IAP-66 is completed and advise you where the pick-up location is. When you pick up this valuable document at Bechtel, please remember to also pick up the information brochure on the Repatriation and Evacuation Insurance. All J-1 visa holders are required by U.S.I.A. to have this insurance. The cost is nominal and is convenient through a provider contracted with Stanford. Please be advised that the postdoc is not required to purchase this policy, they may choose to pay another provider, but must provide proof to the Department Administrator.