NOTE: The information on these pages is provided as a guide to UC San Diego affiliates only, regarding immigration law and UC San Diego policy– not as a general guide to immigration law. If you are affiliated with another insitution, contact your international services office first. In all cases, consult a qualified immigration professional.
Register at the UC San Diego International Center
All new international scholars (INCLUDING transfer scholars from other US institutions) must visit the International Center upon arrival in the USA. Failure to register may result in the termination of your SEVIS record and loss of your J-1/H-1B status. Bring the following documents:
- Passport
- DS-2019 (J-1 Exchange Visitors)
- I-94 Arrival / Departure card
- I-797 Approval Notice (H-1B)
- Contact information (address, phone number, and email address) in San Diego
- Dependent(s) documents (if applicable)
NOTE: Registration is required for all new UC San Diego scholars who are NOT US citizens or Permanent Residents of the USA.
Mandatory New International Scholar Orientation
All new international scholars (including transfer scholars from other US institutions) must attend a mandatory orientation session. Check with the International Center to confirm the schedule as they are subject to change. NOTE: Orientation is required for all new UC San Diego scholars who are NOT US citizens or Permanent Residents of the USA.
J-1 Exchange Visitors
Wednesday each week
9:30 am – 11:30 am
Oceanids Pavilion, International Center
H-1B
Third Monday each month
9:30 am – 10:30 am
Oceanids Pavilion, International Center
Other Resources
- Welcome Letter (PDF)
- Pre-Arrival Checklist (PDF)
A list of items to remember before arriving at UC San Diego. - SEVIS Fee (PDF)
Information about the fee and how to pay it. - Health Insurance Requirement(PDF)
- Obtaining a US Visa
- How to Apply for a US Visa (PDF)
Information on how to apply and obtain a visa to enter the United States.
Arriving in the USA: What to Expect at the US Port of Entry
Information provided by US Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
- Information for J-1 Exchange Visitors
- Arriving in the USA: US Airline and Airport Guidelines
Information provided by the US Transportation Security Administration - Arrival Information (PDF)
Information for scholars arriving at Los Angeles or San Diego airport. - Short-Term and Long-Term Housing Options
Information about on-campus & off-campus housing options - English Language Help (PDF)
- Map and Directions