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.
O-1 Compliance and Travel
Maintaining O-1 Visa Status
Address Updates
If you change your residential address, please update this information with USCIS using form AR-11. Information can be found on the USCIS website.
For Incoming O-1 Applicants Outside the U.S.
Northwestern can file the petition to sponsor an O-1 employee up to 1 year before employment begins but the beneficiary may only enter the U.S. up to 10 days before the start date on his/her O-1 Approval Notice.
O-1 visa holders coming to NU from outside the U.S. need to check-in with the IO before starting employment at NU. To do so, please complete the H-1B/E-3/O-1 Beneficiary Check-In Form and bring your immigration documents including your passport for the IO to photocopy and keep on file.
For O-1 Visa-Holders Seeking Extension
It is important to maintain your O-1 status by applying for an O-1 extension in a timely manner. Please communicate with your current supervisor/department about your O-1 extension.
If you have dependents in the U.S. please remember to file Form I-539 form to extend their O-3 status.
Concurrent Employment
Multiple, or concurrent, O-1 employers are permitted, as long as each has an O-1 petition approved by USCIS.
Off-Campus Occasional Lectures
O-1 beneficiaries are eligible to be issued reimbursement for transportation and reasonable incidental expenses incurred while traveling to off-campus lectures but s/he is not approved to be paid a wage, salary or honorarium for these services. Please contact an OISS advisor for more information and for an approval letter.