Updated options for scholar document shipping
Updated options for scholar document shipping Heading link
As announced on December 16, 2022, OIS will return to pre-pandemic practices regarding the shipment and collection of original scholar documents effective Feb. 1, 2023. Typical documents include Forms DS-2019 for J-1 Exchange Visitor scholars and interns, as well as Forms I-797 Approval Notices associated with H-1B, O-1, and other employment-based statuses. Please note that the shipping options described below do not apply to F-1 or J-1 student documents.
OIS will ship any new, initial J-1 EV requests that were received and in queue before Feb. 1, 2023. All departmental, J-1 EV requests received after this date will follow the new procedure. In addition, all original I-797 Approval Notices received from USCIS after this date will follow the new procedure.
Beginning Feb. 1, the following shipping options will be available:
- Department-generated .pdf shipping label (preferred option) – Departments may email a .pdf shipping label to OIS for one of the following couriers: UPS, FedEx, or DHL. OIS will provide additional guidance about the label at the time of collection.
- Pick-up – Originals can be collected at OIS in person by the scholar or a department representative; a picture ID will be requested, as well as a signature for the document. Office hours are Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
- Billing – A FOAPAL may be provided for UPS charges, which will be assessed after the shipment is complete.
- E-ShipGlobal – In the case of a J-1 EV-driven request, such as a travel signature, or the addition of a J-2 dependent, the J-1 EV may opt to select a service called E-ShipGlobal wherein the J-1 EV provides their credit card information and arranges for their own shipment. They will be offered this option when they submit their request.
Questions about this announcement can be directed to the Office of International Services at oisscholar@uic.edu or (312) 996-3121.