Travel Outside the United States

You can travel outside the United States during your program. Before you travel, plan carefully so you can return without delays or issues. Make sure your documents are valid, up to date, and easy to access.

When you return to the United States, you must show that you are eligible to enter. This is called being “admissible.” Even if you have all required documents, a U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer will decide if you may enter the country.

Documents You Must Carry

When you travel outside the United States, carry the following original documents in your carry-on bag. Do not pack them in checked luggage.

Valid Passport
Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your planned return date to the United States, unless your country has a special agreement with the U.S. Your passport should remain valid at all times during your stay.

Valid U.S. Visa
You must have a valid, unexpired visa in your passport to re-enter the United States (Canadian citizens are exempt). If your visa has expired, you must apply for a new one before returning. Check appointment wait times at the U.S. embassy or consulate and plan ahead.

As of September 2025, most applicants must apply for a visa in their home country or country of residence. Applying for a visa in another country (called a third-country national application) is only permitted if the United States does not provide routine visa services in your home country.

In limited cases, you may be eligible to re-enter the United States with an expired visa after a short trip (less than 30 days) to Canada or Mexico. This is called automatic visa revalidation. If you apply for a new visa during that trip and it is not approved, you will not be able to return to the U.S.

Form I-20 (F-1) with Valid Travel Signature
You must have a valid travel endorsement on your Form I-20 or DS-2019.

If you are an enrolled student, your travel signature is valid for 12 months.
If you are on OPT or STEM OPT, your travel signature is valid for 6 months.

Make sure your program end date has not passed and will remain valid when you return.

Employment Authorization (if applicable)
If you are on OPT or have other work authorization, carry your Employment Authorization Document (EAD) and proof of employment.

Recommended Supporting Documents

You should also carry additional documents to support your entry:

Proof of enrollment (such as your class schedule or transcript)
Proof of financial support (such as funding or bank documents)
Your SEVIS I-901 fee receipt

These documents are not always required, but they can help if you are asked questions at the border.

What to Expect at the U.S. Port of Entry

When you arrive in the United States, you will go through inspection with U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP).

A CBP officer may ask you questions about:

Your travel plans and where you went
Your studies, major, and expected graduation date
Your employment (if applicable)
How you pay for your education

You must answer all questions truthfully and clearly.

CBP officers may also inspect your luggage and may review your electronic devices or online activity. Always follow instructions and remain calm.

If You Are Referred to Secondary Inspection

Some travelers are sent to secondary inspection. This is a routine process where officers review your documents more closely.

If this happens:

Stay calm and follow instructions
Have your documents ready and organized
Answer questions clearly and honestly

If there are delays or concerns, you may ask the officer to contact Visa and Immigration Services (VIS).

Important Travel Considerations

If you remain outside the United States for more than five months, the U.S. government may consider this a long-term absence. This can affect your ability to return using your current immigration documents and may impact future benefits.

If you plan to stay outside the U.S. for an extended time, contact VIS before you travel.

You must also be able to access your university email while you are abroad. Important immigration updates and communications will be sent to your email.

Need Help?

If you have questions about your travel plans or documents, contact Visa and Immigration Services (VIS) before you leave the United States. Planning ahead can help you avoid delays and protect your immigration status.