Immigration and Visa Info

International Student & Scholar Services

International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS) is the office dedicated to serving the University of Minnesota's international community. Its primary mission is to assist international students and scholars in successfully accomplishing the goals that brought them to the University, by using all available resources.

In addition, ISSS supports the University of Minnesota's international efforts by helping departments to bring new foreign nationals to our four campuses and communities; by providing intercultural training for students, staff, and faculty; and by offering events that build links between the U.S. and international campus communities.

Change of Address Notification

All foreign nationals (including U.S. permanent residents) who are physically present in the U.S. must notify the Bureau of Citizenship and Immigration Services (BCIS) and the University of Minnesota of any change in their residential address within 10 days. This includes but is not limited to students and scholars in F, J, H, O, B, and TN visa status; permanent residents; and dependents.

With the conversion to SEVIS, compliance with this law has become easier for F-1 and J-1 visa holders and their dependents. All other foreign nationals must continue to file an AR-11 form with BCIS. ISSS suggests that individuals send Form AR-11 by CERTIFIED MAIL, so that you have proof of having complied with the requirement.

IMPORTANT: Anyone who is subject to special registration must also complete an AR-11SR, regardless of visa status.

Failure to Comply: Any affected individual who fails to these requirements may lose his legal status and may be deported.

Guidelines for Completing the AR-11 (ISSS)

 

Departments Hiring Chinese Scholars

The China Center and International Student & Scholar Services (ISSS) are responsible for processing requests for visiting scholars from mainland China. Departments should begin by downloading and completing a UMN Department Request for DS-2019. Questions should be directed to ISSS at 612-626-7100.

Embassy and Consulates