Entry to the United States

You may enter the U.S. up to 30 days before your program start date listed on your I-20 or DS-2019.

You may travel and re-enter the U.S. during official school breaks if you maintain valid status and plan to resume studies after the break.

You may travel during active periods of OPT/STEM OPT if you:

1. Continue to be employed in your field of study
2. Maintain valid F-1 status

Valid Passport
Must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay in the U.S.

Visa (if applicable)
Ensure your  F-1 or J-1 visa is valid at the time of entry.

I-20 or DS-2019

• Keep your  I-20 or DS-2019 easily accessible for inspection.
• Valid Travel Endorsement Signature
  • Within 1 year for continuing students.
  • Within 6 months for students on active OPT/STEM OPT.
  • Request your travel signature via the International Services Portal.

Financial Documentation
Proof of sufficient funds to cover tuition and living expenses.

Employment Authorization Document (EAD) (if applicable)
For students on OPT/STEM OPT, carry your:

• EAD card.
• Employment letter confirming ongoing work.

Other Documentation

• University acceptance letter (for new students).
• Employment letter (for students on OPT/STEM OPT).

• Review entry requirements from U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP)
• Watch: Know Before You Visit—CBP Video to understand entry procedures.

All travelers arriving at a U.S. Port of Entry are subject to inspection by Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers to ensure compliance with immigration, customs, and agriculture regulations.

• Document Inspection
  • The CBP officer will check your passport, visa, I-20/DS-2019, and other required documents.
  • They will verify your SEVIS record status.
• Questioning
  • The CBP officer will ask questions about the purpose of your visit, how long you plan to stay, and where you will be staying.
  • Be prepared to answer these questions.
• Luggage Inspection
  • You may need to declare certain items and undergo a baggage check.
• Electronic Device Search
  • CBP may inspect phones, laptops, cameras, or other electronic devices as part of routine screening.
  • Learn more about  Electronic Device Searches.
• Admission Decision
  • If everything is in order, you will be admitted to the U.S. and receive an entry stamp in your passport.

If the CBP officer requires additional information, you may be directed to Secondary Inspection for further verification.

• What Happens in Secondary Inspection?
  • CBP officers conduct additional research to verify your documents, travel history, and eligibility for entry.
  • Your SEVIS record will be reviewed.
  • If needed, CBP may contact your school to verify details.
• Be Prepared
  • Have the contact details of your Designated School Official (DSO) readily available.
  • If arriving outside business hours (evenings, weekends, holidays), have an emergency contact number for Public Safety.
• Remain Patient & Cooperative
  • This process may take additional time—stay calm and answer all questions truthfully.
• Final Admission Decision
  • If everything is verified, you will be admitted into the U.S. and receive an entry stamp in your passport.

Yes, as long as you maintain your F-1 or J-1 status, you may legally remain in the U.S. with an expired visa. A visa is only required for entry into the U.S., not for staying in the country. However, if you plan to travel internationally, you will need a valid visa to return to the U.S. unless you qualify for Automatic Visa Revalidation.

No. U.S. visas can only be renewed outside the U.S. You should Apply for your Visa at a U.S. embassy or consulate in your home country. Some students may apply in a third country, but this can lead to delays and potential complications. If your visa application is denied, you will not be able to return to the U.S.

No, a visa is not required for travel to these U.S. territories, unless you are transiting through another country en route. However, you must carry a valid I-20 or DS-2019 and an unexpired I-94.

Yes, in most cases. Under Automatic Visa Revalidation, you may return to the United States after a trip of less than 30 days to Canada, Mexico, or adjacent islands, as long as you have:

• A valid I-20 or DS-2019
• An unexpired I-94

However, this does not apply if you have applied for a new U.S. visa while abroad or are from a country designated as a state sponsor of terrorism by the U.S. government.

You must renew your passport before re-entering the U.S. Most airlines and border officials will not allow entry with a passport that expires in less than six months.

No. The 60-day grace period is meant for preparing to depart the U.S. or applying for a new immigration status. You cannot leave and return during this time.

International Services does not recommend travel during this time. While it may be an option, it is risky. USCIS may issue a Request for Evidence (RFE) while you are outside the U.S., and you will need your EAD card to re-enter once your OPT is approved.

Yes, if your OPT is approved. To re-enter, you must have:

• A valid EAD card
• A valid I-20 with a recent travel signature (6-months)
• A valid passport and visa
• A job offer letter

If you have exceeded the allowed unemployment period while outside the U.S., you may not be allowed to re-enter.

Contact the embassy or consulate of the country you plan to visit to learn about visa requirements and necessary documents.