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For questions about how COVID-19 may impact your employment at OSU or your exchange visitor (J-1 scholar) program, please contact: J-1 Exchange Visitor Scholars or International Employees.
These FAQs are intended to address questions that international students, scholars or faculty may have. These FAQs are informational and do not constitute legal advice. Each individual’s situation is different, and the best course of action for each individual may vary depending on that person’s particular situation. Be aware that as federal developments related to immigration occur, the information provided below may change.
Resources listed on this page are also provided for informational purposes only. Linking to a website or document does not indicate endorsement of the content, or the organization hosting the content.
If you have questions regarding these FAQs, please contact the Office of International Services @ (541) 737-6310 or ois.student@oregonstate.edu.
If your questions are beyond the scope of our office, we may recommend you speak with an immigration attorney. Anyone with legal questions is strongly encouraged to seek qualified legal advice for their specific personal and family circumstances. For information about what to expect when working with a lawyer, please read the information from the Oregon State Bar. Resources to find an immigration attorney include:
Updated June 1, 2021
Remote teaching delivery is when a faculty member facilitates the delivery of their in-person course instruction from a different location by using tools such as Canvas and Zoom. There are online resources readily available to help students navigate all aspect of online delivery, including Zoom. Remote teaching delivery is not the same as offering a course online through Ecampus. The remote facilitation may occur at regularly scheduled Pacific Time (PT) just as if the class was being taught in a regular classroom. While there may still be some remote learning opportunities, OSU is planning for primarily in-person delivery of instruction beginning fall 2021.
Updated March 15, 2021
Ecampus online courses are typically pre-recorded and accessible at time any of the day. While Ecampus classes may satisfy U.S. student visa requirements during the pandemic, the Ecampus schedule of courses is limited both in variety and in class-size capacity. Therefore, unless you are already enrolled in Ecampus classes, it may be challenging to find a full-time course load of all Ecampus courses.
Updated May 10, 2021
On April 26, 2021, the U.S. federal government extended for the academic year 2021-2022, the guidance that allows U.S. institutions to temporarily allow remote delivery of course material, Ecampus online courses or a combination of both course delivery options for international students due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Given the extraordinary nature of the COVID-19 pandemic, the U.S. government will continue to temporarily suspend the online class restrictions for international students during the pandemic. It is anticipated that some international students may be unable to return to the US because of visa and travel complications resulting from the pandemic. As a result, the April 26, 2021 Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) extended guidance continues to apply for summer and fall 2021.
Oregon State University is planning to resume primarily traditional on-site and in-person learning and activities at OSU locations in fall 2021. For immigration purposes, you may be able to register for and take remotely delivered or Ecampus online courses from outside of the U.S. However, as OSU resumes on-site learning, some courses may not have a remote delivery option. It is highly recommended that you refer to the OSU Office of International Services website for more information, continue to monitor OSU’s Pathway to Fall planning website, and check with course instructors and academic advisors directly with questions.
Updated May 10, 2021
You may be able to register for and take remotely delivered courses or Ecampus online courses from outside of the U.S. However, as OSU resumes on-site learning, some courses may not have a remote delivery option. It is highly recommended that you continue to monitor OSU’s Pathway to Fall planning website for updates and check with course instructors and academic advisors directly with questions. Please also consider that the OSU Ecampus schedule of courses is limited both in variety and in class-size capacity. In addition, access to Ecampus online courses or remote delivery of courses may vary depending on global time differences, U.S. export control laws, local laws and restrictions in the student’s home country, access to reliable internet and a reliable computer. Remote courses will be delivered at their scheduled Pacific Time (PT). Be sure that you will have access to Canvas, Zoom, VPN and other software supported by OSU.
Updated May 10, 2021
On April 26, 2021, the U.S. federal government extended the provision, which allows US institutions to temporarily allow remote delivery of course material, Ecampus online courses or a combination of both course delivery options for international students due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The U.S. government will continue to temporarily suspend the online class restrictions for international students during the pandemic. As a result, the April 26, 2021 SEVP extended guidance continues to apply for summer and fall 2021.
Oregon State University is planning to resume primarily traditional on-site and in-person activities at OSU locations from fall 2021. While we highly recommend students attend OSU in person for fall 2021, we understand some international students may have visa delays or travel restrictions due to COVID-19 and may need to study from outside the US. If you are in this situation, please work directly with your academic advisor to understand your options for course registration.
Current international students including transfer students and students progressing to a new program/level with active SEVIS records as of March 9, 2020, can take classes in various modes: in-person, hybrid, remote or Ecampus online from inside or outside of the U.S. There will be no effect on your SEVIS record if you continue to meet your full-time enrollment requirements, or have an approved alternate enrollment, reduced course load or vacation term approval, and have no other violations of status. Once you are enrolled in classes, please work with OIS to determine next steps with your I-20 or DS-2019.
While Ecampus and remote classes may be allowed for immigration purposes, they may not be allowed by certain sponsors, and OSU’s Ecampus schedule of courses is limited both in variety and in class-size capacity.
Updated May 10, 2021
On April 26, 2021, the U.S. federal government extended the provision which allows US institutions to temporarily allow remote delivery of course material, Ecampus online courses or a combination of both course delivery options for international students due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The U.S. government will continue to temporarily suspend the online class restrictions for international students during the pandemic
Oregon State University is planning to resume primarily traditional on-site and in-person activities at OSU locations from fall 2021. While we highly recommend students attend OSU in person for fall 2021, we understand some international students may have visa delays or travel restrictions due to COVID-19 and may need to study from outside the US. If you are in this situation, please work directly with your academic advisor to understand your options for course registration.
While Ecampus and remote classes may be allowed for immigration purposes, they may not be allowed by certain sponsors. OSU’s Ecampus schedule of courses is limited both in variety and in class-size capacity.
Once you are enrolled in classes, please work with the Office of International Services to determine next steps with your I-20 or DS-2019.
Updated January 27, 2021
The July 24, 2020, federal guidance states that students studying from inside the U.S. will be able to continue studying from within the U.S. if a university changes its mode of instruction to fully online due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Students are required to continue meeting their full-time enrollment requirements or have an approved alternate enrollment, reduced course load or vacation term approval, and have no other violations of status.
Because there may be changes in how some courses are offered between now and the start of the term, please continue to monitor OSU’s COVID-19 Safety & Success website for updates and check with academic advisors in your program or course instructors directly with questions. While Ecampus classes may be allowed for immigration purposes, they may not be allowed by certain sponsors, and OSU’s Ecampus schedule of courses is limited both in variety and in class-size capacity. Therefore, unless you are already registered in Ecampus classes, it may be challenging to find a full-time course load with all Ecampus courses.
Updated May 10, 2021
The duration of the travel restrictions is currently unknown. For all international travel, be aware that countries are implementing both international and internal movement restrictions, enforcing curfews, and commercial air travel options may be limited in certain places. The best resources for inquiries about flight availability are the individual air carriers serving each specific country. If you decide to travel, be prepared, understand the risks and be advised that you might not be able to return to the U.S. for an unknown period, your trip could be disrupted or you may be quarantined upon your return. OSU is continually monitoring the travel restrictions; please contact the Office of International Services for the most up-to-date information.
Restrictions on entering the U.S. for foreign nationals who have been in certain countries within the previous 14 days prior to their arrival to the U.S. due to COVID-19 can be found on the CDC website.
The U.S. Department of State announced certain categories of travelers eligible for National Interest Exceptions (NIE’s) to travel to the US from these countries. This includes:
Nonimmigrants who do not fall under any of the above categories should consult the website of the nearest embassy or consulate for instructions on applying for an individual national interest exception.
Travel restrictions do not apply to U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents and other individuals who are identified in the presidential proclamations.
Updated May 10, 2021
We encourage travelers to monitor the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention travel restrictions and the U.S. Department of State warning levels for COVID-19 risk when making decisions about travel.
There is ongoing transmission of novel coronavirus within the United States and in countries throughout the world. Effective Jan. 26, 2021, the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) requires all air passengers 2 years of age or older entering the United States (including U.S. citizens and Legal Permanent Residents) to present a negative COVID-19 test, taken within three calendar days of departure or proof of recovery from the virus within the last 90 days. Airlines are required to confirm the negative test result or proof of recovery for all passengers 2 years of age and older prior to boarding. Airlines will deny boarding of passengers who do not provide documentation of a negative test or recovery. More information on the new requirements for a COVID-19 test or recovery for all air passengers arriving in the U.S. is available here.
As a precaution, because you may have been exposed during your travels (domestic or international) please follow the CDC After You Travel guidance to keep your destination community safe. If you get sick with fever, cough, or other symptoms of COVID-19, call Student Health Services (SHS) or a local medical clinic for further guidance before you visit the clinic.
Updated May 10, 2021
Travelers should monitor the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention travel restrictions and the U.S. Department of State warning levels for COVID-19 risk when making decisions about travel. Travelers should follow these precautions and advice:
Updated May 14, 2020
We do not recommend returning home if you plan to apply for Optional Practical Training (OPT) or Academic Training (AT). If current travel restrictions remain in place, your return to the U.S., may be delayed beyond the program end date on your I-20/DS-2019. It is not recommended to apply for OPT or AT while outside the U.S. since you need to show valid immigration status with your current I-94 record at the time of application. If you have questions, please consult with an international student advisor before you travel.
Updated May 14, 2020
Every individual’s situation is different. We understand your concern about the current situation, which is very fluid and dynamic. It is important to understand the impact taking time off may have on your immigration status or immigration benefits.
Updated March 23, 2020
If your current visa is still valid, you are typically not required to renew it prior to your return. You should prepare for additional questions upon re-entry regarding any extended absences from the U.S. We recommend seeking legal advice for complex situations. If you need a new visa, contact a U.S. Embassy or Consulate to apply.
Updated May 14, 2020
You can stay in the United States on an expired F-1/J-1 visa as long as you maintain your immigration status by being in possession of a valid I-20/DS-2019 and an I-94 Arrival/Departure record, and by meeting normal enrollment requirements.
On March 20, 2020, the Department of State temporarily suspended routine visa services at all U.S. Embassies and Consulates. While emergency and mission critical visa services may still be available, it is not clear whether F-1/J-1 visas would be issued during these times. You are required to have a valid visa to reenter the U.S. so we do not recommend travel outside the U.S. if your visa has expired as this could result in an unexpected lengthy stay while awaiting consular visa services to resume.
We are aware that some visa appointments have been scheduled successfully. Please check with your local U.S. Embassy or Consulate for more information.
Updated May 28, 2020
You do not need a travel signature on your I-20/DS-2019 before your departure, but you will need one to return to the U.S. Please complete the Travel Signature Request form in IP Connect under ‘I-20/DS-2019 Updates’ in the menu.
Updated May 28, 2020
In consultation with U.S. Department of State and U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) released policy guidance allowing Forms I-20 to be signed and transmitted electronically for the duration of the COVID-19 emergency. Digitally signed I-20s will be valid for purposes of travel, visa renewal, re-entry to the U.S., CPT & OPT, and verification of your current program. In alignment with this guidance, OIS is allowed to issue documents in the following manner:
At this time, digitally signed Forms DS-2019 for J-1 and J-2 visa holders can be used for purposes of demonstrating your current program and for your personal records, however, the Exchange Visitor Program (EVP) still requires an original DS-2019 for all official purposes such as travel, visa renewal, and re-entry to the U.S.
To request an original I-20 or DS-2019, log into IP Connect and submit a Travel Signature Request under ‘I-20/DS-2019 Updates’ in the menu. You may sign up for express shipping to have your document mailed to you if you need it urgently. If you can wait until our office resumes normal services, you will also be able to request to pick up an original from University Plaza at that time.
Updated May 14, 2020
Higher education institutions are largely operating under the guidance of the state governors and local health authorities. Resumption of operations such as in-person instruction at OSU will be in alignment with guidance from Gov. Kate Brown, the Oregon Health Authority and local county health officials. Students should seek to return to the United States within 30 days of the next available session start date. We recommend that you stay up to date with OSU’s resumption planning.
Updated May 14, 2020
Students are still eligible to work on campus or remotely where possible. You may need to contact your supervisor with any questions or concerns about work hours, location from where you will be working, and other modifications related to COVID-19. Please remember students are still restricted to 20 hours per week for on-campus work during the regular term even if classes are now offered remotely or online.
Check with OIS about any changes to your Curricular Practical Training (CPT), Optional Practical Training (OPT) or Academic Training (AT).
Updated May 14, 2020
When seeking employment, you will work with OIS to get the correct documents to apply for a SSN. For those students working on campus at OSU, OIS and the OSU Office of Human Resources will provide further guidance.
If you are applying for a SSN based on CPT, OPT, or AT for off-campus employment, you may be able to request for an appointment at the SSA office by calling the toll free number and requesting a call back from the national line. The national line will contact your local office to contact you about setting up an appointment for you to visit with your documents in a manner that adheres to the social distancing rules set by the state.
Updated May 14, 2020
If you have a pending OPT application: Continue monitoring your mail and email for updates regarding the status of your application from USCIS. We do not recommend students travel internationally when their Post-Completion OPT application is pending with USCIS. We always recommend students remain in the U.S. until their application has been approved since the immigration service could request information from you during the process, and an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) card is required when returning to the U.S. after program completion.
If you have received your EAD card but no job offer: Fast-changing travel restrictions may make travel during this time challenging. If you must travel please speak with an international student advisor prior to departure. It is advisable to have proof of your employment search and financial documentation with you. Keep in mind that you are allowed only 90 days of unemployment while on OPT.
If you have received your EAD card and you have a job offer: Please work directly with your employer if you have questions or concerns related to your employment and COVID-19
Updated May 14, 2020
Students currently participating in OPT, including STEM OPT, may work remotely if approved by the employer and the employer can effectively assess the students’ engagement using electronic means. Students participating in STEM OPT do not need to submit an updated Form I-983 to report remote work. However, requirements to submit an updated Form I-983 for all other changes remain in effect.
May 14, 2020
You can continue working to maintain your immigration status. The U.S. federal government has announced that for the duration of the COVID-19 emergency, students who are working in their OPT opportunities fewer than 20 hours a week will be considered as fully engaged in OPT. Please keep good documentation of your hours during this COVID period.
Updated May 14, 2020
First, it is important to determine if you are being laid off or if you are being placed on a "temporary leave in accordance with your company's leave policies." Being laid off means that you do not have a job to come back to without reapplying. If you are placed on leave – whether paid or unpaid – this means that your workplace is temporarily suspending services, but will keep your position and expect you to return when the company resumes services. If you are not sure, please ask these question directly of your boss or your Human Resources office, as this is a very important distinction.
If you are being placed on leave in accordance with an official policy, then the days you are not working will not count as unemployment and will not count against your 90-day maximum period of unemployment (your "unemployment clock"). If you are being laid off, however, you are required to report to OIS this end in employment within 10 days. These days will count against your 90-day unemployment clock. It is recommended that you also seek legal opinion from an immigration attorney to better understand the risks and range of options available.
It is important to note that the international community has asked SEVP and USCIS to issue guidance on this issue and consider a temporary halt in counting of unemployment days – if any update is released (and we hope it will be) we will share it with you. In the meantime, we have to operate under the existing rules. If you are not clear on how many days you have left of your 90-day unemployment clock, please contact OIS for an update.
If you are working or plan to do work for OSU outside the United States, then you and your supervisor must contact and work with Employee and Labor Relations (Employee.Relations@oregonstate.edu) to ensure proper procedures are in place due to a variety of laws that affect international working relationships.