International Student Travel Guidelines

International students who wish to travel outside the United States must follow these important guidelines.

1. Signed Travel Endorsement in Your I-20

• F-1 Visa Requirement: Ensure you have a valid signature in the Travel Endorsement section (page 2) of your I-20 form from a university DSO before traveling.
• Signature Validity: The signature date on your I-20 is valid for one year. Make sure it will still be valid upon your return. It's recommended to have at least 30 days between your anticipated re-entry and the expiration of the travel signature.
• Appointment: Contact the F-1 International Student Advisor at least 1 week before your expected departure date to schedule an appointment for the travel signature.

2. Valid Passport

• Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months after your re-entry date into the United States.

3. Valid Student Visa

• Check Validity: Before leaving, confirm that your student visa will be valid for re-entry into the U.S. If it is not valid, you will need to apply for a new visa before your return.
• I-20 Status: As long as your I-20 record in SEVIS is current and in good standing, a valid visa is not needed to stay in the U.S. However, a valid F-1 visa is required for international travel.
• Visa Renewal Process: If you need to renew your visa, you must apply in person at a U.S. embassy or consulate abroad, providing the following documentation:
  • Valid passport
  • Current passport-size photographs
  • Valid Form I-20 (all pages)
  • Proof of financial support (e.g., bank statements, scholarship, or financial aid letter)
  • Proof of enrollment (e.g., certificate of enrollment or transcript)

Certain students may qualify for waiving the visa interview process when renewing. Check the consulate or embassy website for eligibility.

4. Important Documents to Carry

When traveling, ensure you have the following documents in your carry-on bags (not in checked luggage):

• I-20 form (with travel signature)
• Passport
• Visa
• Financial support documentation
• Emergency contact information for the APSU SEVIS PDSO/DSO and APSU Public Safety for after-hours emergencies
• Proof of student identification (transcripts, student ID, current/next semester class schedule/registration)

If on OPT:

• Bring proof of employment (job offer letter with start/end dates) and your EAD card.