DOS to Allow Digital Signing & Electronic Transmission of Form DS-2019
Yesterday the U.S. Department of State announced the publication of an Interim Final Rule that permits designated sponsors of the Exchange Visitor Program (J-1 and J-2) to digitally sign and electronically transmit (email) the Certificate of Eligibility for Exchange Visitor Status (Form DS-2019.)
Prior to this announcement, program sponsors, such as UIC, were required to mail signed paper copies of Form DS-2019 to prospective exchange visitors and dependents abroad, who would then apply for a J-1 or J-2 nonimmigrant visa at a U.S. embassy or consulate and if approved, would then seek admission into the U.S. The new regulation will reduce shipping costs and improve efficiencies for UIC sponsoring departments, exchange visitors, and their dependents abroad.
The new regulation is effective April 27, 2023, and the Department of State will accept public comments on the interim final rule until May 30, 2023.
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OIS will continue to monitor DOS announcements and will update UIC departments, international students, exchange visitors, and the international community accordingly. As always, if there are any questions or concerns about this announcement, please feel free to contact us at ois@uic.edu or (312) 996-3121.