ub isss travel endorsement

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Request Form I-20 with Updated Travel Certification Signature

• Traveling without a valid Form I-20

Travel Instructions for F-1 Students This section will provide you with information regarding reentering the U.S. after a temporary absence. If you plan to leave the U.S. and return to the University of Miami, you must have the necessary documents to permit entry to another country and reentry to the U.S.

Entry to another country If you wish to temporarily visit your country of citizenship or permanent residency, you will be allowed to enter that country if you hold a valid passport. Before temporarily visiting a country other than your country of citizenship or permanent residency, you must check on entry visa requirements for said country. Go to www.embassy.org for the addresses and phone numbers of all foreign embassies located in Washington D.C. Reentry to the U.S. To reenter the U.S. after a temporary absence (i.e., an absence of five months or less), you must have a properly endorsed Form I-20, a valid passport, and a valid F-1 visa (not required for citizens of Canada). Properly endorsed Form I-20: If you have already used your Form I-20 to enter the U.S. once, then you must have page 2 of your Form I-20 endorsed by your ISSS Advisor. This page, when properly endorsed, may be used for reentry to attend the same school after a temporary absence from the U.S. Each certification signature is valid for  one year  from date of signature, or until the Form I-20 expiration date, whichever comes first. E-mail [email protected]  to request an updated signature.

In the case that you have left the U.S. without a valid I-20, read the ISSS handout titled "Traveling Without a Valid I-20 or DS-2019" for instructions. Valid Passport: You must have a passport that is kept valid at all times while you are in the U.S. If your passport will expire within six months, contact your embassy in the U.S. and make arrangements to renew as soon as possible. Valid F-1 visa: The U.S. visa tells you by which date you may enter the U.S. The expiration date of the visa has nothing to do with how long you may remain in the U.S. – that is determined by your I-20 and I-94.  However, if you are traveling abroad and wish to reenter the U.S., then you must have a valid F-1 visa in your passport. Documents you will need for visa issuance: You will need a valid passport, a current photograph, a properly endorsed Form I-20, proof of financial capability for continuing studies, and continued nonimmigrant intent. Go to the Department of State website for other documents you may need. Information on applying for an F-1 visa is also available on the ISSS website. Where to apply: Although you may be able to secure an original or renewal of an F-1 visa in a foreign country other than your own, your chances of being issued an F-1 visa are greatest when you apply at a U.S. consular office in your country of citizenship or permanent residency. You may face more stringent requirements in a third country and should allow more time in case of delays. It is not possible to obtain an F-1 visa in the U.S. When to apply: You usually cannot apply for a new visa until 90 days before the expiration of the old one. Visa voidance: If you have overstayed or been unlawfully present during your studies immediately prior to leaving the U.S., you might be subject to visa voidance. Such overstayed students would be subject to payment of the $200 Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) fee and would need to obtain a new F-1 visa stamp in the home country in order to reenter the U.S. The SEVIS fee must be paid online through use of a credit card, locally using the Western Union Quick Pay service, or by mail through use of a check or money order at least three days prior to the date SEVIS fee payment verification is required by the U.S. Consular Office.  ISSS highly recommends that you file and pay the required SEVIS fee online with a credit card or in person through the Western Union Quick Pay service instead of by mail with a check or money order since the online option and the Western Union Quick Pay option result in speedier processing of your required fee payment. Please ask your ISSS Advisor for detailed information on options for payment of the SEVIS fee.

Visa revocation following a DUI: The U.S. Department of State is revoking visa foils ("stamps") of foreign nationals following a conviction or an arrest for driving under the influence (DUI), driving while intoxicated (DWI), or a related criminal charge. Individuals are notified of their visa cancellation by email (address used on the visa application). An individual in nonimmigrant status whose visa has been prudentially revoked will have to obtain a new visa in order to be readmitted to the United States after temporary travel abroad. In order for the visa to be issued, the foreign national will first need to be cleared by a panel physician following a medical screening, which may result in a visa denial or delay. A student who has their visa revoked should talk to an immigration attorney. "Automatic revalidation of visa" benefit: Under certain circumstances, you may reenter the U.S. with an expired visa as though the visa were still valid. An expired F-1 visa may be considered to be automatically extended to the date of application for readmission to the U.S. (and therefore the visa in the passport need not have an expiration date that is in the future), provided you do the following:

Apply for readmission to U.S. after an absence not exceeding 30 days in contiguous territory (Canada or Mexico) or adjacent islands (Saint Pierre, Miquelon, the Dominican Republic, Haiti, Bermuda, the Bahamas, Barbados, Jamaica, the Windward and Leeward Islands, Trinidad, Martinique, and other British, French, and Netherlands territories or possessions in or bordering on the Caribbean Sea other than Cuba);

Maintain lawful F-1 status and intend to continue doing so;

Present a valid passport containing Form I-94 which authorizes a stay beyond the date of entry (e.g., D/S);

Present a properly endorsed Form I-20.

Under these circumstances, you may be saved the necessity of applying for a new F-1 visa even if your visa has expired. A student whose visa has been canceled or voided is not eligible for automatic revalidation of visa benefit. Citizens of “state sponsors of terrorism” cannot take advantage of the automatic revalidation benefit. Any non-immigrant who chooses to apply for a new visa while in contiguous territory is not eligible for the automatic revalidation benefit during the course of that trip, but has to wait until the visa is granted in order to enter the U.S.

Transfers: If you have lawfully transferred schools while in the U.S., the visa will specify the school for which it was initially issued. In this instance you may reenter with an unexpired F-1 visa and Form I-20 from the new school without having the new school's name reflected on the visa. Status Violation and Travel: If you have violated your F-1 immigration status prior to traveling abroad and wish to seek reentry to the U.S. with a new Form I-20 to resume your F-1 status, you must pay the $200 SEVIS fee and apply for a new visa prior to being able to seek reentry to the U.S. with proper documentation. Refer to I-901 SEVIS Fee for information on procedures regarding payment of the SEVIS fee.

OPT Students: If you have applied for post-completion Optional Practical Training (OPT) and have graduated but have not yet received an Employment Authorization Document (EAD), you must also present the Form I-797 receipt notice for the pending EAD application to reenter the U.S.

If you graduated and received the EAD for post-completion OPT, you must also present the EAD and a letter from your current or prospective employer to reenter the U.S. page 2 of your new Form I-20 with approved OPT dates must be validated for travel within the last six months.

Travel Warnings and Travel Alerts:  Ensure that you are traveling safely by reviewing the Department of State (DoS) International Travel Information web page.  On the DoS website, you will find travel warnings, travel alerts, country specific information, and country background notes.   There is also a section titled “Tips for Traveling Abroad” for other important health and safety information. 

Safeguard and Retain Your Documents:  It is your responsibility to retain copies of all your immigration documents and all immigration applications (Form I-20 or Form DS-2019, employment, change of status, program extension, etc.) for your records/future use.

Email ISSS at  [email protected]  and request an Form I-20 with an updated travel certification signature. ISSS will issue a new I-20 with an updated travel certification signature, which will be sent to your UM email address.

Travel Tips

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has issued important reminders to assist international students expected to arrive in the United States.

These reminders for international students registered in the Student Exchange and Visitor Information System (SEVIS) are intended to ensure that legitimate students are quickly processed at ports of entry. A comprehensive list of answers to frequently asked SEVIS questions has also been posted online at www.ice.gov and www.cbp.gov .

DHS recommends international students h and carry (do not check with your baggage) the following documents:

- Your passport; - Your SEVIS Form I-20; - Evidence of financial resources; - Evidence of student status, such as tuition receipts, transcripts or letter of acceptance; - Paper receipt for the SEVIS fee; and - The name and contact information of your designated school official (International Student and Scholar Services Advisor).

Important Note:

Familiarize yourself with U.S. entry procedures prior to arrival. When traveling to the U.S., you should carry your printed UM I-20 along with your passport, student visa, and I-901 SEVIS fee receipt. Do not put these documents into your checked baggage! Present your documents to a U.S. Customs and Border Protection officer at the U.S. port-of-entry.

Visit the Newly Admitted International Students page for information on International Student Orientation and other important resources.

Traveling without a valid Form I-20 Failure to have all proper documentation upon re-entry to the U.S. may be a cause for delay when going through the U.S. port-of-entry, and may be reason for the officer to send you to Secondary Inspections. Please click here for information on what to do if you do not have a valid Form I-20 upon reentering the U.S.

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IMPORTANT: If you require a travel signature on your document to re-enter the US, please submit a Replace/Reprint I-20 request via iStart and select 'travel' as the reason. ISSS has been granted permission from SEVP to send F-1 documents electronically and will send a signed I-20 via e-mail during this time. DS-2019s must still be signed in ink and mailed, so we will work with J-1 students to send these documents by post.

• Where is the travel endorsement located on my document?
• Questions to help determine eligibility to receive a travel endorsement
• How do I request a reprint of my document?
• Can ISSS mail my new I-20/DS-2019 to me?
• What if I don't have enough time to get a reprinted document?

Planning Ahead

Where can i find my travel endorsement.

• I-20: Last section of page 2
• DS-2019 : Bottom, right-hand box on page 1

Questions for Travel endorsement

Have you received a travel endorsement from isss on your i-20 or ds-2019 recently.

Each travel endorsement is valid for up to 12 months (6 months for F-1 OPT). You may use your current I-20 or DS-2019 if the endorsement is less than 12 months old when you re-enter and the information on page one remains the same.

Will your passport be valid for at least six months when you enter the country?

Your passport must be valid on the date you enter the U.S. F-1 and J-1 students whose country is not on the passport agreement list must have a passport valid for at least 6 months after the date of entry.

Will your F-1/J-1 U.S. entry visa be valid when you return?

If not, you will need to apply for a renewal at the U.S. consulate or embassy in your home country.

Canadian citizens do not require a U.S. entry visa

Are you still in the same program of study? Is your source of funding still the same?

If not, you will need to apply for a new I-20 or DS-2019 . If the change in your program of study is effective in a future semester, then you may use your current I-20 or DS-2019 as long as it has a valid travel signature.

If your travel endorsement is outdated, you should request a reprinted document following the instructions below.

Requesting a Reprint

In order for ISSS to reprint your I-20 or DS-2019 for travel purposes, please fill out the appropriate application below. Please remember to include a return mailing address in your application or purchase a shipping label. If you need a travel signature, please choose "travel" as the reason for the reprint request. If you lost your I-20 or DS-2019, please choose "lost" as the reason.

• Request an I-20 Reprint (iSTART e-form)
• Request a DS-2019 Reprint (iSTART e-form)

Download the instructions for using a reprinted e-form.

Please see note "IMPORTANT" above - some mailing services have been suspended at this time.

All F-1 I-20s reprinted for travel will be sent electronically. If you are a J-1 student and would like your document shipped to you, please review Mailing Options . You can indicate your mailing preference in the e-form.

What if I do not have enough time to receive a new document?

If your travel plans do not allow enough time for you to receive a new document from ISSS, then you must either change your anticipated return date, or travel without a valid travel signature on your I-20 or DS-2019. If you choose the latter option, it is most likely that the Customs and Border Protection officer at Port of Entry will issue you an I-515 form. This form will allow you temporary admittance to the U.S. for a period of 30 days. During this 30-day period you must contact ISSS, obtain an updated I-20/DS-2019 by requesting a reprint for travel through iSTART, then submit the I-515 form to the address provided on the I-515. You will then be allowed to remain in the U.S. as normal. Please note however that receiving an I-515 is at the discretion of the CBP officer and cannot be guaranteed by ISSS. On rare occasions you may be denied entry to the US, and you should be aware of this risk before travelling.

In the future, we strongly recommend that you submit a reprint request for travel through iSTART as early as possible before traveling.

• Understanding Your Immigration Documents

Quick Links

You should consider the following when planning to travel:

Travel Outside the U.S.

When traveling outside the U.S. as an F-1 or J-1 student or scholar, you will need the following documents to return:

• If you plan to renew your passport at home please check renewal times before you travel so that your return to the U.S. will not be delayed.
• If your visa is expired, you will need a new unexpired visa to request entry to the U.S.
• If you have changed your status to F-1 or J-1 while in the U.S. you will need a new visa to re-enter.  If you re-enter in your old status, the F-1 or J-1 status you have obtained through a change of status in the U.S. will be cancelled.
• Current Transcripts or proof of funding is not required, but recommended
• For J-1 students and scholars:  DS-2019 endorsed for travel by an ISSS coordinator within the  past 6 months
• For F-1 students not on OPT:  a valid I-20 endorsed for travel by an ISSS coordinator within the  past 12 months.  If you are traveling outside of the U.S. and require a travel endorsement, you must submit the travel endorsement request through your ISSS Connect portal .
• For F-1 students on OPT:  a valid I-20 endorsed for travel by an ISSS coordinator within the  past 6 months  and your valid EAD card and employment letter.  If you are traveling outside of the U.S. and require a travel endorsement, you must submit the travel endorsement request through your ISSS Connect portal .

Your F-1 or J-1 visa must be valid to request re-entry to the U.S. Consider the following before traveling back and requesting re-entry to the U.S.:

• The expiration date of your visa must be on or after your return date.
• The letter “M” in this section of your visa indicates multiple entries that are not limited.
• Some visas have a number for entries; ensure that you have enough allowed re-entries available to be eligible for re-entry upon your return.

Students with a valid visa in an expired passport:

• You may continue to use the valid visa.
• A valid passport is required to request re-entry to the U.S.
• You will need to carry both your expired passport with the valid visa  AND  the unexpired passport to request re-entry to the U.S.
• Make sure your valid visa is physically intact and does not have any cuts or holes in it, even if the expired passport does have cuts or holes.

Students with an expired visa:

• You will need to apply for a new visa before you will be eligible to request re-entry to the U.S.
• Visas can only be issued while outside the U.S.
• It is not guaranteed that you will be given an appointment in a third country. Exceptions are made for citizens of countries where there is no U.S. embassy or for students who have another valid reason for being in the third country, such as residence in the third country or attendance at a conference in the third country. 
• If applying in a third country, you must be prepared to spend a significant amount of time for the visa process, especially if you become subject to administrative processing or a background check.   
• F-1 students on OPT: you may be required to bring additional documents to the visa appointment.

If you plan to visit Canada, Mexico or adjacent islands (excluding Cuba) for less than 30 days, you may be able to return to the U.S. with an expired F-1 or J-1 visa. Make an appointment with an Immigration Coordinator to see if you qualify.

Upon your return to the U.S.:

• If your entry is not reflected correctly after 24 hours from your entry to the U.S., make an appointment with an Immigration Coordinator for assistance
• Determine if you need to consult with an Immigration Coordinator if you were given any materials by Customs and Border Protection Officials at the Port of Entry (ex. an I-515A/Deferred Inspection I-94 and letter; DHS Form I-193)

Travel Within the U.S.

When traveling you should always be able to document your immigration status, particularly while traveling in the U.S. This means having your passport and I-20/DS-2019 with you.

You should be extremely cautious when traveling near a U.S. border to ensure you don’t unintentionally cross into a different country.  

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Know Before You Travel

Stay informed.

Please reconsider all non-essential travel. Consult the  Stay Informed Page  for the latest updates.

What should I consider when I travel abroad?

• Contact your country's consulate to determine what travel precautions they suggest
• View travel advisories issued by the Department of State
• Review International Security Office (ISO) recommendations prior to your travel.
• Speak to an advisor in ISSS if you have any concerns about your status or travel plans

By Visa Type

What documents do i need to take with me when i travel.

• Valid passport
• You can request this through myIO > F-1/J-1 Student Services > I-20/DS-2019 Travel Signature Request
• Proof of financial support Examples include: Personal bank statement, Research Assistant/Teaching Assistant verification letter that includes salary and tuition payment details, or sponsor’s letter and bank statement
• An official  UT Transcript  or  Certification of Enrollment  is issued by the  registrar’s office  – Main Building, Room 1
• Documentation of approval to take a reduced course load, if applicable.
• SEVIS fee receipt

What documents do I need?

• If your travel signature has expired, you can request a new one through myIO > F-1 Student Services > I-20 Travel Signature Request
• Employment Authorization Document (EAD card) from USCIS
• Offer of Employment Letter  from your employer that includes the dates of your employment, a description of your duties, your salary, location where you will be working, and number of hours of work per week. You should also be prepared to discuss how this job experience relates to your major field of study. If your employer is sponsoring you for a work visa, this information should not be included in your letter for travel while on OPT. Any mention of plans to change visa statuses could be interpreted as a misrepresentation of your intentions in the U.S. by a Port of Entry Officer. A volunteer position letter is acceptable.
• Valid F-1 visa  Do not use other types of US visas (i.e. tourist visa or visa waiver) if you plan to use OPT upon your return to the U.S.
• SEVIS Fee Receipt

Travel Within The United States

Every time you leave your Austin home, you should carry copies of your passport biographical and expiration pages, DS-2019, and I-94 record. If you are traveling outside of Austin, you should take your passport original, DS-2019, and I-94 record. Due to the proximity of the U.S.-Mexico border, you may be required to show proof of legal immigration status if you travel in south or west Texas, so be certain to bring your original documents even if you do not plan to cross the border.

Travel outside of the United States

To enter the United States after a temporary trip abroad you will need your:

• Passport (valid for 6 months or longer upon entry)
• Valid J-1 visa (Canadian J-1 Exchange Visitors are exempt from the visa requirement.)
• DS-2019 signed for travel within the last 12 months

If you are traveling to a country that is not your country of citizenship, please consult that country’s consulate to determine if you require an entry visa.

It is also important to consult the  Texas Global Risk & Safety website  for current travel restrictions and potential safety concerns.

If you are traveling outside of the United States for longer than 30 days, Department of State regulations specify that you must provide ISSS with a letter from your department stating where you will be, and how it connects with your current J-1 program. Examples include returning to your home country for 6 weeks to engage in research that you will use for your program at UT, or doing the same in another foreign country. Please email [email protected]  anytime you are planning on traveling outside of the United States.

While traveling in H-1B status, it is important to carry your original I-797 H-1B Approval Notice, valid passport, valid H-1B visa and current proof of your employment.

Please note that being in valid H-1B status is not the same as having a valid H-1B visa. H-1B status holders will need to apply for an H-1B visa to re-enter the country after international travel.

For information on obtaining a visa, visit the website of the U.S. Consulate in your home country, found at  usembassy.org  and review our Prepare for Your H-1B Visa Interview page . International travel plans should account for potential delays while obtaining the visa at the U.S. Consulate.

If you would like to check out your original I-797 H-1B Approval Notice for travel or if you have further questions about traveling or applying for a visa, please schedule an appointment for  Faculty and Scholar Advising .

General Travel Questions

If your nonimmigrant visa stamp has expired, you will have to apply for a new visa to re-enter the U.S. unless you will be using Automatic Visa Revalidation (see below).

Visit the Applying for a U.S. Visa page for more information about applying for an F-1 or J-1 visa.

If you plan to travel to a country that is contiguous* to the U.S. (but NOT Cuba) and you intend to stay there less than 30 days and will NOT apply for a new U.S. visa, you may reenter the U.S. on an expired visa stamp (this regulation is known as  Automatic Visa Revalidation ).

When traveling to a contiguous country, you keep the  same  I-94 number with you upon exiting the U.S. Tell the immigration official at the port of exit (border) that you intend to stay outside the U.S. for less than 30 days and that your U.S. visa is expired. Make sure to have your I-20 or DS-2019 signed by an immigration advisor at ISSS before you travel and present that document along with your valid passport, form I-94, and expired visa to reenter the U.S.  Reentry into the United States through Automatic Visa Revalidation is not guaranteed.

If you are staying for more than 30 days or planning to apply for a U.S. visa while in Mexico or Canada, please  talk to an international student advisor  at ISSS before you make arrangements. In general, ISSS does not recommend that third-country nationals apply for a U.S. visa in Mexico or Canada because of lengthy delays due to background/security checks and complications in case of visa denial. If your visa application is denied, you would need to depart directly to your home country to apply for a new visa to reenter the U.S. You may not use Automatic Visa Revalidation if you applied for a visa while abroad.

Note: Citizens of Iran, Syria, Sudan, and those from a  State Sponsor of Terrorism designated country  as listed by the U.S. Department of State will not be allowed to reenter the U.S. with an expired U.S. visa stamp, even if the trip is to a contiguous country.

* Saint Pierre, Miquelon, Cuba, the Dominican Republic, Haiti, Bermuda, the Bahamas, Barbados, Jamaica, The Windward and Leeward Islands, Trinidad, Martinique, or other British, French or Netherlands territories or possessions in, or bordering, the Caribbean Sea.

If you are on a student visa traveling to Mexico, Canada or any country that is not your country of citizenship, you may need a visa to enter that country.   Be sure to contact the Embassy or Consulate Office of the country you are wanting to visit to find out if you will need a visa to travel to their country.

If you are not in the Austin area and need a new travel signature, you can place an order in  Texas Global  to have your new document sent via express mail. You may request a new  I-20 travel signature  or  DS-2019 travel signature  online in myIO.

International Students and Scholars Global Partnerships and Programs

F-1: Travel Abroad

General information.

For travel outside the United States, please carry the following documents with you (in hand, do not check in checked luggage):

• Passport valid six months into the future 
• Valid F-1 visa stamp in your passport (Note: Canadian and Bermudian citizens are exempt from this requirement)
• Original financial support as listed in item #8 of the I-20
• I-20 with valid travel signature

More information about traveling abroad on  Travel Abroad Information for International Students | ISS (purdue.edu)

Travel Signature Requirement

Your I-20 must be endorsed for travel if you plan to exit and reenter the US. The travel signature is required upon reentry into the US. It is not required for leaving the US.

Travel signatures are valid for a one year period from the date it was signed or until the I-20 expiration date, whichever comes first.

Exceptions to the one-year endorsement

Degree/program completion:  The endorsement is  no longer valid.   This may be the date you deposit your thesis, complete the semester, or graduate.

Students on Optional Practical Training (OPT):   Travel signatures are valid for only 6 months during OPT period. Proof of US employment is required.

Academically dropped, suspended, expelled or terminated:   Contact ISS  immediately  concerning your nonimmigrant status.   Do   not  use the Purdue I-20 to reenter the US.

Foreign visa requirements:  The country where you are travelling may require a new I-20 travel signature. Check with that country's consulate for their advice.

Out of the US for more than 5 months:  I-20 will no longer be valid for reentry.  Notify ISS of prolonged absences so we may best advise for future reentry into the US.   Exception:   Students participating in Purdue Study Abroad programs.

How to Request a Travel Signature

To request a travel signature, please submit  MyISS >F-1 and J-1 Student Services>Reissue/Travel Signature Request .

Please be aware that travel signature processing can take a maximum of 14 calendar days in very busy times , but typically takes much less time.

Plan Ahead!

Emergency travel.

If you have an emergency and need to travel before you have time to receive a new travel signature or when ISS is closed (weekends, federal, and university holidays), please go ahead and travel.

Remember that the travel signature is required upon returning the US, not for leaving the US. Follow the instructions above to submit a travel signature request online while you are abroad.

What happens if I do not have time to get a travel signature?

If you do not allow enough time for you to receive a new travel signature before you travel, please be aware that most likely, the Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer at the US port of entry will issue you a Form I-515A Notice to Student and Exchange Visitor, granting temporary admissions. Please note that the temporary admission with the Form I-515 is at the discretion of the CBP officer and ISS has no authority to persuade CBP to grant you temporary admission. On rare occasions, you may be denied entry to the US, and you should be aware of this risk before travelling to the US.

If you are issued an I-515A, you will be granted temporary admission into the US for 30 days. The I-515A form contains instructions for what you need to do to extend your stay beyond the 30 day admission. You should submit MyISS >General Services>Ask Student Counselor requesting assistance with your I-515A. ISS will provide instructions and the required documents to mail to the Department of Homeland Security within the 30-day submission deadline in order to maintain status.

Within four to six weeks, you will receive your new I-20/DS-2019 and I-94 arrival/departure card marked D/S, or duration of status. This notation extends your stay to its original length. You will not be able to travel outside the United States until you receive your documents marked D/S, so please plan accordingly.

If you do not send the I-515 and supporting documentation by the submission deadline, your visa status will be terminated and you will need to exit the United States immediately or file immediately for reinstatement with US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

Make sure to read through the  Travel Abroad Information  sheet on the ISS website on traveling, maintaining status, and important information about your student visa. Also check the ISS website for the latest updates on  Immigration Changes  before traveling.  

F-1 Visa Renewal

You may legally remain in the United States with an expired F-1 visa as long as you continue to otherwise maintain your F-1 status.  If your visa expires and you exit the United States, in most cases, you will need a valid, unexpired F-1 visa to reenter the United States.

You must be outside the U.S. to apply for or renew a US visa. ISS can provide general tips on how to apply for a re-entry visa at a US Embassy or Consulate abroad:  Renewing Your Student Visa   However, you must do research yourself as to what specific requirements are for your citizenship. Please ensure that your passport, I-20, and travel signatures are all valid before applying for a visa. If you need to request a new travel signature, plan to do so at least two weeks prior to departure date.

Automatic Revalidation of Visa

Certain nonimmigrants may be able to reenter the US with an expired visa if they meet requirements. The travel may be for business or pleasure and for a maximum stay of 30 days. Visit the US Department of State website to determine whether you qualify for this type of travel: 

US Dept of State Autorevalidation Site

If you determine you would be eligible to reenter the US under the automatic revalidation provision, ensure that you have a valid passport, I-20, and travel signature. Please read this bulletin carefully as it mentions additional restrictions from using this regulation that may apply to your situation.   

Please note that you may need a visa to enter the country to which you are traveling.  Be sure to check with that country's consulate concerning visa requirements.

Note regarding the I-94 : It is also recommended to carry a print of your electronic I-94 when using the auto-revalidation option (and keep a copy for your records). Access your I-94 on  USCBP's I-94 site . If you still have a paper I-94, it is recommended that you retain it for your reentry to the US.

Visa Appointments in Canada and Mexico

Some students choose to renew their US visa in Canada or Mexico, although ISS typically advises students to do this in their home country in case there are delays in visa processing. You must research whether applying for a visa in Canada or Mexico is a possibility for citizens of your country, and what the requirements are. Please see the following US Embassy & Consulates websites for more information.

Canada:  US Consulates in Canada

Mexico:  US Consulates in Mexico

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Requesting a Travel Signature

All I-20 and DS-2019 travel signatures are issued electronically; ISSS advisors will not sign your document in-person. ISSS will not provide physical ink signatures on documents.

Students in F-1 Status

• A new I-20 with a travel signature will be emailed to you.

Students in J-1 Status

• A new DS-2019 with a travel signature will be emailed to you.

Travel Signature

Prior to traveling outside the U.S., please check to ensure that you have a valid travel signature as you may be 1) denied re-entry to the U.S. or 2) issued an I-515A and only granted temporary status in the U.S. for 30 days. If you are issued an I-515A, you must meet with an ISSS advisor immediately as additional actions must be taken to extend your status beyond 30 days.

• F-1 /F-2 Status: Travel signatures are provided at the bottom of page 2 of your I-20
• J-1/ J-2 Status: Travel signatures are provided in the lower right-hand corner of your DS-2019

A travel signature is valid for re-entry to the U.S. for up to one year from the date that it is provided or until the end of your program, whichever occurs first. Exception: If you are on Optional Practical Training , a travel signature is only valid for re-entry to the U.S. within 6 months of the signature date.

Documents for Re-Entry to the U.S. After a Temporary Absence

• Current I-20 or DS-2019 with Valid Travel Signature
• Exception:  Certain countries can re-enter the U.S. up to the expiration date.
• Exception: Citizens of Canada do not require a visa
• If using the Automatic Visa Revalidation provision, travel with your I-94 ( printed copy of your Electronic I-94 or paper I-94).
• You must check the entry requirements of your country of destination. ISSS can only advise on U.S. entry and immigration rules.
• e.g., bank letter, financial guarantee, scholarship letter, affidavit of support
• Must show funding for expenses noted on I-20 or DS-2019.
• ​ If you do not have your original receipt, you can print a copy from the I-901 fee website .
• Unofficial Transcript and/or Verification of Enrollment Indicating Full-Time Status Every Semester printed from the Buff Portal

If you travel outside the U.S without your I-20/ DS-2019 or valid travel signature:

Students in F-1 status, complete the I-20 Reprint Request e-form (available in MyISSS portal ).

ISSS will reprint and email you a new I-20 with a new travel signature.

An electronic or digital travel signature is valid for the same duration as an ink signature .

Students in J-1 status, complete the DS-2019 Reprint Request e-form (available in MyISSS portal ).

ISSS will reprint and email you a new DS-2019 with a new travel signature.

Print the DS-2019, sign it in ink in the Exchange Visitor Certification section at the bottom of p.1 and carry it with you when you travel to the United States.

Printing Your Electronic I-94

After re-entering the U.S., ISSS recommends printing your electronic I-94 to ensure your information was recorded properly and to document your maintenance of status.

• Your I-94 can be retrieved from the I-94 website .
• For additional information about accessing your I-94 or obtaining an I-94 correction, please see Printing Your Electronic I-94.

Submitting A New Passport, Visa, or I-94 to ISSS

If you renew your passport or visa, the updated copy of the document can be submitted to ISSS using the Passport/Visa Submission e-form (available in MyISSS portal ).

A new I-94 arrival record can be submitted to ISSS using the Document Submission e-form (available in MyISSS portal ).

• New Students
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Travel Resources

• Travel Handout: Re-Entry from Travel Outside the U.S.
• Renewing Your Visa
• Automatic Visa Revalidation
• Printing a Copy of Your I-94 & Obtaining an I-94 Correction
• International Student Travel FAQ for Students on OPT
• U.S. Entry Restrictions
• CO VID-19 Related Guidance from Embassies
• COVID-19 Travel Restrictions & Exceptions
• National Interest Exemptions
• Phased Resumption of Visa Services
• U.S. Embassies and Consulates
• Student Visas
• Preparing for your Visa Appointment
• Visa Wait Times
• Administrative Processing
• Visa Denials
• F-1 Student Re-Entry
• Arriving in the U.S.
• PP 10043: Suspension of Entry as Nonimmigrants of Certain Students and Researchers From the People's Republic of China

U.S. Port of Entry Resources

• Getting to the United States
• Know Before You Visit
• Know Your Rights at the Airport
• Border Searches of Electronic Devices (ACLU)
• Border Searches of Electronic Devices (CBP)
• Secondary Inspection
• You’ve Arrived
• I-94 Arrival / Departure Record
• What to do if you are detained at a Port of Entry

Travel Signatures

When travelling outside the U.S. students in F-1 and J-1 status should verify they have a travel endorsement from ISSS on the Form I-20 or DS-2019.  The signature will be on page 2 of the Form I-20 or page 1 of the Form DS-2019 and is valid for 12 months or until the program end date.

Students who need a travel signature should submit a request as follows:

• Log in to the ISSS Portal using Onyen and password
• Select General Student Services from the menu on the left-hand side
• Select Student Travel Signature under Tasks and follow form instructions

Students requesting a travel endorsement will receive a new Form I-20 or Form DS-2019 via email. The document will be emailed to your UNC email account as a PDF file and you will need to print and sign the form to present when re-entering the U.S.

Travel documents

The following documents are required for re-entry to the U.S.

• Form I-20 or Form DS-2019 signed for travel by an ISSS “Designated School Official” within 12 months (unless on a period of Optional Practical training, then the signature must be valid within 6 months).
• Valid F-1 or J-1 visa stamp (Canadian and Bermudian citizens do not require a visa stamp)
• Passport valid for at least six months into the future on the date of re-entry

ISSS recommends students travel with the following documents:

• Financial support information to document the funding indicated on Form I-20 or DS-2019
• Documentation verifying full-time enrollment ( enrollment certification , transcript , or letter from academic department)

Students who need to obtain a new visa must apply at a US Embassy outside of the U.S. (preferably in their home country). Please check the U.S. Embassy’s website for more information before leaving the U.S.

Automatic Revalidation

Consult with the embassy or consulate for the country you plan to visit to determine whether a visa will be required for entry into that country.

The Form I-94 is issued at the port of entry to nonimmigrants by Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officials to record arrivals and departures from the U.S.

Travelers may access their Form I-94 immediately on the CBP website by inputting their information (if they entered the U.S. by air or sea):

• Name as listed in the passport
• Passport number
• Country of issuance
• Class of admission
• Date of entry into the U.S.

Travelers are encouraged to print their electronic Form I-94 from the website upon arrival, as a print copy may be needed for work authorization, driver license and social security applications, etc. Check the class of admission (F-1, J-1, H-1B, etc.), the date of entry and “admitted to” date (D/S for F and J status) and bring errors to the attention of the ISSS office.

Travelers at land ports of entry to the U.S. will receive a modified paper version called the I-94A.  Some individuals, such as refugees and asylees, will continue to receive a paper form I-94.

International Student & Scholar Services

International travel.

Reminder: If you are traveling to a country other than your home country please be sure to check if a visa is necessary for entry.

FOR F-1 & J-1 STUDENTS  

To request a travel signature, complete the Travel Signature Request on the ISSS Portal . Processing time is 5-7 business days. You will be notified once your request is processed. A travel signature is valid for one year unless the F-1 student is on Optional Practical Training (OPT), and in that case, the travel signature is valid for 6 months.

All F-1 and J-1 students should download the electronic I-94 admission record upon reentry and ensure that they are admitted in either F-1 or J-1 status with an end date of D/S. If you are admitted in a different visa category, or if the end date on the I-94 has anything listed other than D/S, contact your assigned ISSS advisor immediately.

F-1 Students: Your new I-20 will be uploaded electronically to your ISSS Portal record.

J-1 Students : You will be able to access the electronic copy of the DS2019 on the ISSS Portal.

Click here for travel tips from the Immigration and Customs Enforcement office.

An F-1/J-1 student pursuing a full course of study wishing to leave the U.S. and return after a temporary absence of five months or less may do so with the following:

• Valid passport
• Valid F-1/J-1 Visa (unless exempt from the visa requirements)
• Form I-20/DS-2019 properly endorsed for travel by ISSS

F-1 Students on Post-Completion Optional Practical Training (OPT) An F-1 student in their last semester who has  applied for post-completion OPT may travel outside the U.S. and return after a temporary absence with a valid passport, valid visa, and valid form I-20 endorsed for travel.

An F-1 student who is  engaged in OPT after completion of their degree who travels outside the U.S. temporarily (less than 5 months) can be readmitted to resume employment for the remainder of the OPT period authorized on the EAD card, with the following documents:

• Valid passport and F-1 Visa
• Form I-20 signed for travel by ISSS within the last 6 months
• An unexpired EAD card (OPT approval card)
• Letter of employment to prove resuming employment

F-2 and J-2 Dependents must also have their I-20/DS-2019 endorsed for travel

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All options for getting an updated travel signature can be found on the “ Get a Travel Signature ” page.

If you plan to travel back home, to another country, or even inside the U.S., you should plan ahead. Remember, your entry into the U.S. is the decision of Customs and Border Protection (CBP). You should always travel with the following documents.

Please monitor world news to stay updated on current events that may affect your travel plans. If your travel is sponsored by UW–Madison, you must follow the university’s travel policies .

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Passport Valid for 6 Months Into the Future

Your passport should be valid for at least six months into the future at all times. There are  exceptions for some countries , but it is still recommended that you take steps to renew your passport in your home country or at a foreign consulate in the U.S.

F-1 or J-1 Student Visa

You must have a valid F-1 or J-1 student visa to reenter the U.S. Your visa can expire while you are inside the U.S. maintaining valid F-1 or J-1 student status. Also check the number of entries your visa is valid for (M=multiple).

You cannot renew your F-1 or J-1 visa inside the U.S.

Valid I-20 or DS-2019 with Travel Endorsement

You must carry your most recently issued I-20/DS-2019 with you when you travel outside of Madison. A valid travel signature from ISS is required.

Current I-94 Record

You are issued a new I-94 after each entry to the U.S., so it is necessary to retrieve your most recent I-94 upon your reentry.

Enrollment Verification or Transcript

It is recommended that you carry your   enrollment verification letter  or  transcript  that shows past, current, and future enrollment. This helps to prove your maintenance of legal F-1 or J-1 student visa status.

Proof of SEVIS I-901 Payment

Carry the  receipt for your current SEVIS ID number.

Financial Documentation

It is recommended that you carry your most recent financial documentation that matches the funding on your I-20/DS-2019. This is required if applying for an F-1/J-1 visa.

If you forget your documents, you might face delays at the U.S. port of entry. CBP may send you to secondary inspection if they are not immediately able to verify your information. You may be able to kindly request a Form I-515A that will allow you to temporarily reenter the U.S.

If you have all of your documents each time you enter the U.S., but you are always sent to secondary inspection, you should file for a DHS redress number far in advance of your next planned travel outside the U.S.

Know Your Rights : What to Do if You are Detained at a Port of Entry (F & J visa holders). This document is provided by the American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA) New England Chapter, and does not constitute legal advice.

Get a Travel Signature

What is your travel signature (or endorsement), how to get one, and what to do if you left the U.S. without updating your travel signature.

Renew/Replace Your Documents

Learn what you need to do if any of your immigration documents are lost, stolen, or expiring.

Visa Delay, Denial, or Cancellation

Review information on what to do if your visa is delayed, denied, or cancelled.

Travel After Studies

Learn about F and J travel restrictions during your grace period.

TRAVEL & OPT

Assess international travel risks before, during, and after OPT authorization.

Dependent & Family Travel

Your F-2 and J-2 dependent travel requirements and how to invite a family member to visit you.

Travel to Another Country

Be prepared before you book travel to or transit through another country, including automatic visa revalidation.

If you are planning a cruise during or after your studies, review this information before booking your trip.

Travel Bans

Review information about current travel bans in effect.

Remember, the U.S. government determines your eligibility to enter the U.S. Be prepared and have the required travel documents with you.

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Travel internationally.

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COVID Travel Considerations

Air passengers will no longer need to show proof of being fully vaccinated with an accepted COVID-19 vaccine to board a flight to the United States

The ISSO can advise international students on what is required to enter the U.S. after travelling abroad. If you are travelling to a country other than your home country, the ISSO is not able to advise you on what is required to enter or apply for visas for other countries. Check that country’s tourist information to see if you need a visa.

Review the Department of Homeland Security  Aviation Security Enhancements for Select Last Point of Departure Airports with Commercial Flights to the United States . It requires all passengers travelling from, or transiting into, 10 specific overseas airports to place all personal electronic devices (PDE’s) larger than a cell phone or smart phone in checked baggage. The measure will remain in effect indefinitely.

Re-entering the U.S. in F-1/J-1 Status

If you plan to travel outside the U.S. and return in F-1or J-1 status, you must have the following documents upon re-entry.

Required Documents

• Valid F-1 or J-1 visa
• Valid passport with an expiration date that is at least six months beyond your re-entry date.
• F-1 students pursuing program of study need an endorsement within the past 12 months
• F-1 students on OPT need an endorsement within past 6 months
• J-1 students and scholars need an endorsement within past 12 months
• F-1 students on OPT should also carry their OPT EAD and proof of employment.

Recommended Documents

• Official or unofficial transcripts
• Proof of financial support
• Proof of U.S. health insurance
• Current course schedule showing full-time enrollment
• Resume and/or CV
• UT Dallas catalog description of your major
• Documentation of the reason for your travel abroad
• Any written communication or emails from your professors excusing your absence if you have missed class for your recent travel

If you are missing any of the required documents when you are entering the U.S. you may be allowed to enter the U.S. temporarily. U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer may issue you a Form I-515A , “Notice to Student or Exchange Visitor.” If you receive an I-515A you must respond in a timely manner, otherwise your immigration status is at risk of termination.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection Officers have the authority to search any and all electronic devices such as mobile phones and laptops brought into the U.S. at a port of entry, as well as the social media accounts of individuals entering the US.

Request a travel endorsement

First, check page 2 of your current I-20 to see if you already have a travel endorsement. If you do need an endorsement, complete a Travel Signature Request through iComet .

Look under the “Current Students” tab for the eForm. Both current students and alumni on OPT can use this option. A new I-20 will be issued and endorsed. The ISSO will send an email to your UT Dallas email when your travel endorsement is ready. Your I-20 will be attached to the email. Print it and sign it in ink to use for travel.

Complete a  J-1 Student Service Request  and submit it to  [email protected] .

J-1 students will receive their original DS-2019 by mail.

Current Student Check-In

Effective Fall 2023, each fall and spring semester you must complete Current Student Check-In in iComet to verify that you have timely arrived to resume your studies in the U.S. and are meeting the physical presence requirements of your student visa status. If you are travelling abroad during the summer or winter breaks, you should ideally plan to return by the start of classes each fall and spring term. If you do not re-enter and complete Current Student Check-In by Census Day of the term, your status may be terminated for failing to meet the physical presence requirements.

Please see our Fall 2023 Check-in and Physical Presence FAQ page for more information.

This page will be updated when the Current Student Check In form is available in iComet with details of when the ISSO will begin accepting submissions for Fall 2023.

Most visitors will get their I-94 online . If after submitting the online form you get an error message, try again using a different format of your name. For example, enter it as it appears in your passport, then as it appears on the U.S. visa. Print a copy of the I-94 for your records. You will need it for a variety of uses, such as obtaining a driver’s license or Social Security card.

In the past, the I-94 Arrival/Departure Record was issued as a white card stamped by a port of entry official. If you travel through a U.S. land border, you may receive a physical I-94 card.

Both versions of the I-94 are valid.

If the online information is incorrect or cannot be found, a visitor can obtain a new I-94 at the local Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Deferred Inspection office .   The Dallas CBP office  is located in D/FW airport Terminal D, Level 1.

DFW International Airport Terminal D International Arrivals CBP Reception Office – Arrivals Level 2333 S. International Pkwy, Room D23F157 DFW Airport, TX 75261 Office hours: Monday – Thursday 9:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m. Phone: 972-456-2250 Online: help.cbp.gov/s/questions

• All I-94 corrections requests must be done in person on a walk-in basis at the Deferred Inspection Office
• Latest I-94 and/or last ink stamp given at time of admission
• For F-1 students: I-20 document
• For J-1 students: DS-2019 document

Visa Renewal

In order to enter the U.S. you must have a valid, unexpired visa in your passport. Once you have entered the U.S., if you are an F-1 or J-1 student and comply with the regulations for your visa category you are eligible to remain in the U.S. until you reach the end date on your I-20/DS-2019 or until the end of your academic program, whichever comes first. The expiration of the visa in your passport has no effect. Once you leave the U.S., however, you will need a valid, unexpired visa to return. For more information, visit  Apply for a Visa .

Automatic Visa Revalidation

You may be eligible to leave the U.S. and re-enter with a U.S. visa that is expired if you meet all the following conditions:

• You are in valid F or J status
• You are travelling solely to Canada, Mexico or adjacent islands
• You will stay outside the U.S. for less than 30 days
• You have a valid, unexpired I-94
• You are not a citizen of Cuba, Iran, North Korea, Sudan or Syria
• The purpose of your trip is not to apply for a renewal of your U.S. visa

To use this benefit:

• Tell the port of entry official your intention as you leave the U.S.
• If you were given a white card I-94 the last time you entered the U.S., do not surrender it. You will need to present it to the port of entry official upon re-entry.

If you apply for a visa renewal while outside the U.S. you are not eligible for this benefit. If you are denied the renewal and your current visa is expired, you will not be allowed to re-enter the U.S.

Study Abroad and Student Conference Travel

• Students travelling abroad on University business, such as conferences, workshops, sport competitions, etc. must submit an international travel authorization request and obtain institutional authorization prior to departure. For more information go to  International Risk and Safety .
• Students travelling abroad on an Education Abroad program must follow the Education Abroad process and obtain institutional authorization to travel prior to departure. For more information go to  Education Abroad .
• For more information on how study abroad can affect F-1 status, see the ISSO webpage on Education Abroad for International Students .

Absence from the U.S. for more than Five Months (F-1 only)

• To maintain F-1 status, students must be enrolled full-time every long semester and avoid gaps of more than five months between terms.
• If you leave the U.S. for more than five months, your F-1 status will end.
• To re-enter the U.S., you will need an initial attendance I-20 and a new visa.
• To be eligible for off-campus employment, you will have to re-establish your eligibility by maintaining full-time enrollment for one academic year even if you met that requirement in your previous status.

Travelling Inside the U.S.

You do not need special documents to travel from state to state or to U.S. territories but you must always carry your immigration documents. This is particularly true while travelling through states along the Mexico or Canada borders. You could be stopped by immigration officers at any time and told to produce the following:

• Valid, unexpired passport (expiration date at least six months into the future)
• Valid, unexpired I-20 or DS-2019
• U.S. visa (expired or unexpired, unless you are a participant in the Visa Waiver Program)
• Employment Authorization Document (EAD) card and employment verification documents if you are on Optional Practical Training (OPT), the 24-Month OPT Extension, or H-1B Cap Gap Relief.

Non-contiguous US States and Territories

If you are already legally in the U.S., you do not need a visa to visit Hawaii, Alaska, Puerto Rico or U.S. Virgin Islands unless your travel plans include entry to another country en route to these destinations. You will need to take your valid, unexpired I-20 or DS-2019.

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The information contained in this web site is provided as a service to the international students, faculty, staff, employees and administrators of the University at Buffalo, and does not constitute legal advice on any immigration, tax or other matter. We try to provide useful information, but we make no claims, promises or guarantees about the accuracy, completeness or adequacy of the information contained in or linked to this web site or any associated site. As legal advice must be tailored to the specific circumstances of each case, and laws are constantly changing, nothing provided herein should be used as a substitute for the advice of competent counsel. Neither the University at Buffalo nor the Office of International Student Services is responsible for any errors or omissions contained in this website, or for the results obtained from the use of this information.