Intake & Orientation
Date: By appointment
Time: 2:00pm
Location: Visa and Immigration Services (VIS), E-5310 Melville Library
All new J-1 scholars are required to attend J-1 Orientation. Follow the steps below to complete the necessary steps prior to orientation.
Documents to Bring With You to Orientation
- Passport
- Form DS-2019
- I-94, Arrival/Departure Record
- If you have J-2 dependents, bring the same documents for each dependent.
Topics Covered in Orientation
- Regulations governing J-1 visa status
- Applying for a Social Security Number (SSN)
- Work authorization and employment rules
- Travel guidelines
- Health insurance requirements
Important Travel Note: If you plan to travel outside the U.S. after your arrival, obtain a travel signature from your International Faculty/Scholar Advisor on your DS-2019 to re-enter the U.S.
Applying for a Social Security Number
Who Needs an SSN?
J-1 scholars employed by Stony Brook University or the Research Foundation for SUNY
must apply for an SSN.
When to Apply:
You can apply for an SSN after receiving email confirmation that your Immigration
Intake form has been approved.
Reminder:
- An SSN card is required for employment but it is not a work permit. You must still have the appropriate visa and work authorization to legally work in the U.S.
- Visiting Scholars that are not employed or receiving a salary from a U.S institution should attend J-1 Scholar Orientation before submitting an application for a SSN.