Orientation

All new international scholars and faculty are asked to meet with the International Studies Office for an Orientation session within their first days of arrival. Topics covered include: information about Bloomington-Normal, Immigration laws and responsibilities, healthcare in the U.S., safety, health insurance and more. Visitors are also "checked in" for Immigration purposes according to their visa type. Visitors should contact International Studies prior to arriving so an appointment can be set for within their first days here.

Exchange Visitors: Contact Stephanie Gonzalez (sgonzal@ilstu.edu or 309-438-5112)
H-1B Foreign Faculty: Contact Michael Schmelzle (mwschme@ilstu.edu or 309-438-7901)

Please bring the following documents to your orientation session:

Passport
Visa
I-94 card
DS-2019 form (if you have the J-1 visa)
Proof of health insurance (if you have the J-1 visa* and don't plan to buy insurance here)
The address where you will live in Bloomington-Normal.
Note: If family members will accompany you, please bring their documents, too.
* During orientation, exchange visitors (J-1 visa) will be asked to show proof of health insurance that meets the requirements set by the U.S. Department of State. The insurance is mandatory for all J-1 and J-2 visa holders during their entire stay in the United States. For more information, see the U.S. Department of State's Exchange Visitor Brochure.