English Language Requirement
J-1 regulations require proof of sufficient English language knowledge before an exchange visitor is invited to participate in a J-1 program. Find out more about the requirement and method for certifying English proficiency.
If you are a non-native English speaker and are hiring someone who speaks your language, please understand that U.S. Department of State regulations require our exchange visitors to have enough English fluency to comfortably navigate grocery stores, transportation, and doctor and hospital visits.
If your visitor arrives and is not able to function outside your lab or facility, he or she may not be able to continue in the exchange program.
Health and Accident Insurance Requirement
Government regulations mandate that all J-1 exchange visitors and their J-2 dependents have health and accident insurance. Find out more about the insurance requirement.
Fostering a Culture of Respect
As part of its commitment to diversity and inclusion, Cornell is making a concerted effort to ensure that our community can identify potential acts of sexual violence and knows who to contact and consult about it.
All new employees are required to take the online course Respect@Cornell. This course addresses how to respond should faculty or staff learn a member of our community has experienced any type of sexual violence or stalking. It also lets faculty and staff know how to file a complaint. The course takes less than an hour and must be completed within 30 days of the start of employment.
Taxes and Social Security Number
In general, foreign nationals earning any money in the United States must file a tax return, even if their earnings are below the minimum established annually by the IRS. Encourage your J-1 visitors to determine their tax status by contacting Payroll.