If you are traveling outside the U.S., you will need the following documents in order to re-enter.
Make sure that these documents are with you rather than in your checked luggage. Do not rely on electronic copies. Check each item in the list below for more detailed information.
Required Documents
Valid Passport
If your passport is expired or close to expiring, you should renew it before you travel. Your passport must be valid for at least six months into the future. Contact your home country’s embassy in the U.S. for information on renewal.
Valid F-1 Entry Visa
If your F-1 entry visa has expired or if you do not have an F-1 entry visa, you must apply for a new visa at a U.S. consulate abroad before you return (except citizens of Canada or Bermuda). It is not possible to renew your visa from within the United States. Learn more about visa renewal.
In limited circumstances, you may be able to use an expired visa to return from a short trip to a neighboring country using something called "automatic visa revalidation." Please talk to an advisor if you are interested in traveling with this option.
Valid I-20 document
Request a new document if the information on your I-20 is no longer correct or your I-20 is about to expire. You should print your I-20 rather than relying on a digital copy.
Valid Travel Signature
For re-entry to the U.S., your I-20 must have a valid travel signature on page 2. Your travel signature is for:
- 12 months if you are an enrolled student
- 6 months if you are on OPT or STEM OPT
If your signature is no longer valid, you must request a new signature from ISSS before you travel. You should request a travel signature through MyISSS.
Travel on OPT/STEM OPT
Can I travel outside the U.S. if my request for OPT is pending?
If your OPT application is still pending, you should speak with an advisor before traveling internationally. International travel may be possible, but there is a higher risk for students traveling without an approved EAD card.
Can I travel internationally while on OPT or STEM OPT?
If you have a job or job offer, you generally may travel, apply for a visa (if needed), and re-enter to resume work at the job. You should carry your EAD card and proof of employment, as well as all of the documents listed above.
If your OPT has been approved and you 1) depart before you have a job or job offer or 2) no longer have a job, you might experience difficulty re-entering the U.S.
