J-1 Scholars/Exchange Visitors (EVs) may or may not be employees of WashU. However, regardless of WashU employment status, J-1 EVs may be eligible in addition for what is called “incidental employment.”
If you are not sponsored by WashU, contact your program sponsor regarding work authorization before agreeing to any opportunities.
What is incidental employment?
Work that is secondary in time or importance to your primary program activities and does not affect the completion of your J-1 program. Often, for EVs, this involves giving a guest lecture, speaking at a conference, or consulting on your research. The employment is occasional and infrequent. If you will receive a benefit from the activity, it counts as employment.
If you provide a service and receive anything in return (such as cash, an honorarium, free lodging, free meals, free airfare, etc.), this is considered payment and requires permission.
Am I eligible?
Only EVs in the Professor, Research Scholar, or Short-term Scholar categories are eligible. Incidental employment must be:
- Incidental to your primary program activities
- Directly related to the objectives of your EV program
- Not interrupt or delay your program completion date
- Pre-approved by your host department
- Pre-approved by OISS
- Documented in SEVIS
How do I receive work authorization?
If you have an opportunity for incidental employment, reach out to your host department. You will work with both your host department and your potential employer/organization who is inviting you to conduct an incidental employment opportunity to apply for authorization. Work with them to complete the J-1 Occasional Lecture or Short-Term Consultation Authorization (PDF) form. Reach out to OISS at J1Scholar@wustl.edu with any questions.