Visiting Scholars and Professionals

An international “scholar” is a J-1 visa category for foreign nationals whose purpose in the United States is to primarily conduct research, or otherwise be connected to research projects. “Scholars” are rarely enrolled in university courses. This appointment is temporary and J-1 visa holder cannot be in a tenure track position. The maximum time to participate in this category is five years.

International applicants interested in working at the University of Wyoming should reach out to their prospective department for information about available positions and opportunities, as well as requirements and expectations. The Global Engagement Office (GEO) can assist international employees with life and work at the university, as well as visa requirements:

• International scholars may visit the University of Wyoming on a J-1 exchange visitor visa.

  • The J visa program is an Exchange Visitor Program with objectives of public diplomacy and mutual educational and cultural exchange. The University of Wyoming currently sponsors J-1 Exchange Visitors in the Student, Professor, Research Scholar, Short-Term Scholar, and Student Intern categories. The J Exchange Visitor Program is a non-immigrant program, meaning the visitor maintains ties to his/her home country and expects to return there upon completion of the exchange in the United States. A Form DS-2019 must be issued by the University of Wyoming before you can apply for your J-1 visa.

  • Information about the J-1 visa for Research Scholars, Short-Term Scholars, and Visiting Professors can be found on the International Students and Scholars website here.

• Departments may invite international research scholars, short-term scholars, and professors.

  • Information about the application process for interested University of Wyoming offices can be found on the UW International Students and Scholars (ISS) website here.

• International professionals who already have obtained a position at the University of Wyoming must apply for an H-1B visa (government link here) for “temporary worker” status. Their employer must be willing to sponsor their visa application.

  • An H-1B visa allows for 3-6 years of authorized work in the United States with the possibility of change of status to another visa category (immigrant or non-immigrant).

  • Please keep in mind that applications can be time-consuming (4-6 months), require extensive documentation, and are subject to immigration processing fees. Dependents coming to the United States with the H-1B visa holder may study (attend school/college/university), although they may not work within the United States. 

  • Basic information about applying for H-1B or permanent resident status can be found on the International Students and Scholars website here.

Any additional questions about visiting scholars and professionals? For those interested in more information about J visas, please contact the University of Wyoming International Students and Scholars Office (uwglobal@uwyo.edu). For more information about H-1B visas, please contact Carrie Hesco (chesco@uwyo.edu).