Travel on OPT & STEM OPT Extension

Required Travel Documents

To re-enter the U.S. on approved OPT or STEM OPT, you should carry:

• A passport valid for at least 6 months beyond your return date
• A valid F-1 visa (Canadian and Bermudian citizens are exempt)
• A valid Form I-20 with a travel signature (less than 6 months old at re-entry)
• Your EAD card

Additional Recommended Documents

• Proof of employment (offer letter, pay stubs, or employment verification letter)
• For unpaid roles: a letter describing your duties, hours, supervision, progress in the position or research, and approved leave period.
• If traveling with F-2 dependents: copies of your EAD, I-20, and employment letter

Important Guidelines

• If you do not have a job, travel is not recommended, as you may have difficulty re-entering the U.S.
• Travel only if you have qualifying employment
• Be prepared to explain your job and how it relates to your degree
• Ensure you do not exceed your unemployment limit while outside the U.S.
• Time outside the U.S. counts as unemployment unless you remain actively employed during that time
• Do not re-enter the U.S. using a tourist visa or ESTA, as this will end your F-1 status and OPT eligibility.

Travel While I-765 is Pending

Risks of Traveling with a Pending Application

Before traveling, consider the following:

• You may not be able to respond to a Request for Evidence (RFE) or other USCIS notice while abroad
• Missing a biometrics appointment may result in denial of your application
• If your application is denied while you are outside the U.S., you may not be able to return
• If approved while abroad, you must have your EAD card in hand to re-enter
• You may be asked to show proof of employment at the port of entry
• U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) makes the final decision on your admission

Documents to Carry (with Pending I-765)

If you still decide to travel despite these risks, carry the following documents:

• Passport (valid 6 months into the future)
• Valid F-1 visa
• I-20 with OPT recommendation and valid travel signature
• I-797 receipt notice
• Job offer or proof of job search
• Current EAD (if STEM extension is pending)

Requesting a Travel Signature

While on Post-Completion OPT and STEM Extension, travel signatures are valid for 6 months. To request a new travel signature:

1. Log in to accessVIS through Limited Services, with your SBU ID, date of birth and Limited Services Pin.

2. Select Employment & Training from the left menu.

3. Select Post-Completion OPT or 24-month STEM Extension checklist.

4. Submit Travel Signature Request e-form.

VIS typically processes requests within 5–7 business days. If your request is approved, you will receive a new I-20 with an updated travel signature. Review it carefully, then print and sign it.

Visa Renewal During OPT

If your F-1 visa has expired and you plan to re-enter the U.S., you must obtain a new visa unless you qualify for automatic revalidation (short trips to Canada, Mexico or neighboring islands). Because OPT is an F-1 benefit, you must have a valid F-1 visa to return and continue your OPT employment.

You must apply for a new visa at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate in your home country.

What to Expect

The visa application process is similar to when you were a student, but additional review may occur while you are on OPT or STEM OPT.

• You must show proof of employment
• You may be asked to explain how your job relates to your degree
• You may need to demonstrate your intent to return to your home country after OPT or STEM OPT

Visa approval is not guaranteed. Your application may be denied if the officer is not satisfied with your documentation or your plans after OPT.

Important Considerations

• If your OPT or STEM OPT application is still pending, applying for a new visa is not recommended
• You should be prepared to clearly explain your employment and future plans

For more information, review our Applying for a U.S. Visa website.