On July 17, 2026, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security published a final rule that establishes a fixed time period of admission and an extension of stay procedure that impact students and scholars on F-1 and J-1 visas. The rule is anticipated to take effect Sept. 15, 2026. While Northwestern analyzes this complex rule, we are working to update our website and communicate guidance as quickly as possible. Members of the Northwestern international community who have questions are encouraged to reach out directly to their assigned OISS advisor.

Apply for an Initial E3

The OISS only accepts E-3 requests from NU sponsoring departments, so any E-3 application should begin with the E-3 applicant speaking with his or her sponsoring department; once the department has confirmed its sponsorship, the Australian National (AN) can apply. See these host department steps.

Petitions can only be started 8 months prior to the employment start date. OISS processing times are subject to change based on processing volume.

Instructions for Incoming E-3 Beneficiaries

1. Submit required documentation to your host department.

Your host department must submit your forms and documents (listed below) along with its own documents as a complete package to the OISS.

Copy of passport biographical page
Current curriculum vitae (CV)
Copy of diploma(s)
Copy of transcript(s)
Credential evaluation
Recommended evaluation companies include: Evaluation Service, Inc.; World Education Services (WES); Educational Credential Evaluators (ECE)

If you once held a J-1 visa and are subject to the 212(e) two-year residency requirement:

Copy of waiver recommendation
Copy of I-612

If you once held an E-3:

Copies of all past E-3 approval notices

2. Complete the online questionnaire in Docketwise.

The Office of International Student and Scholar Services (OISS) will send you the necessary login information to Docketwise after your sponsoring department has submitted their request to the OISS.

3. Make a visa appointment at a U.S. Consulate/Embassy to obtain your E-3 visa.

After processing, you will be sent required documentation for visa appointment.

You can obtain E-3 visas for your dependents at this time.

4. Arrival and check-in.

You are required to check-in at the Office of International Student and Scholar Services prior to starting work.