Resources for International Postdocs

Important information to know that is unique to the international postdoc experience

• Unpaid vacation is unavailable, so international postdocs are restricted to established paid vacation or sick leave time

• International postdocs are not allowed to work remotely from outside the US

• The termination period for contracts is only 15 days, leaving little room for finding alternative appointments

Visas

All immigration related issues for University of Minnesota employees and students are handled by the International Students and Scholars Services, U of MN (ISSS) (consider subscribing to their monthly communications here). Details about the following can be found here:

• H-1B Employment at the U of MN

• J visa status

• F-1 OPT (Optional Practical Training)

• TN employment visa (Mexican or Canadian citizens)

• O-1 Visa

• Employment-based Visas: Comparison Chart (PDF)

Taxes

• The ISSS Tax Resources and Information website is also a useful reference for international scholars for tax related issues.

Additional Useful Resources

• List of immigration attorneys and law offices

• National Postdoctoral Association's International Programs & Resources page and International Postdoc Survival Guide

U.S. Immigration and Employment Options for International Postdocs

During National Postdoc Apprecition Week 2023, The Arkell Immigration Team at Dunn Law Firm presented information about U.S. immigration and employment options for international postdocs and graduate students. 

Topics included:

• U.S. permanent residence (‘green cards’)

• National Interest Waivers for researchers and entrepreneurs 

• Extraordinary Ability petitions

• Transitioning from F-1 OPT or J-1 status to H-1B, and ‘H-1B cap’ issues

• Recent changes in U.S. immigration, executive orders and related issues

Watch the recording here