Travelling Abroad Tips for F1 Visa Holders

Students holding an F1 visa are typically based in the United States for their academic pursuits, but there are occasions when they must travel. These trips often coincide with university breaks or may be necessitated by unforeseen emergencies. Such travel can take them back to their home countries or to destinations elsewhere.

Before making travel plans and bookings, students must adhere to specific guidelines to ensure their reentry into the United States. This article outlines the essential steps that F1 visa students need to follow when preparing for international travel.

What to Do Before Traveling Abroad as an F1 Visa Holder?

When making travel arrangements, it is imperative to ensure you have the necessary documents. Here are the key steps to follow:

1. Consult Your Designated School Official (DSO): Your first course of action should be to communicate with your Designated School Official (DSO). Every university with an International Office has a DSO who can provide information about relevant policies and regulations that pertain to you. Your DSO will also need to endorse your Form I-20, which is the Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status. This endorsement is essential to validate your eligibility for travel and remains valid for one year, allowing multiple trips without requiring a new endorsement.
2. Ensure Your Form I-20 is Valid: Your DSO will update your SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System) records for the duration of your travel. It is crucial to confirm that your Form I-20 is valid for the entire travel period. Attempting to reenter the United States with an expired I-20 form is not permissible. If your I-20 is approaching its expiration date, apply for a new one and allow time for processing before your travel plans commence.
3. Understand SEVIS Records and Time Limits: With an F1 visa, you can remain outside the United States for up to five months. During this period, your SEVIS record will reflect your absence. Upon your return, your DSO will reactivate it. However, an absence exceeding five months will result in a Terminated status for your SEVIS, necessitating the acquisition of a new Form I-20 upon your return. This reset will not affect your Optional Practical Training (OPT) eligibility.
4. Valid Passport: Ensure that your passport is current and valid as you will require it for reentry into the United States. If your passport is nearing expiration, you have the option to renew it either through a consulate in the US or in your home country before returning.
5. Check F1 Visa Validity: Verify the validity of your US F1 visa, which must cover the entire duration of your travel. If your visa is close to expiration, apply for a renewal before embarking on your journey. An expired visa will bar you from entering the US.
6. Carry Old Passport with Visa: If you have obtained a new passport, it is imperative to carry your old passport containing the valid US visa when entering the US. Failure to do so may result in complications with Customs and Border Protection (CBP) clearance.
7. Compile Required Documents: Before departing from the US to another country, ensure you have the following documents:
   • A valid passport with at least six months of validity beyond your intended return date to the US.
   • A valid F1 visa.
   • A valid Form I-20.
   • Financial documentation, such as bank statements, scholarship award letters, or sponsor letters, to substantiate your financial status.
   • Proof of enrollment at a US university, including admission letters, unofficial transcripts, and a university ID card.
   • Form I-901 and SEVIS fee receipt.
   • An optional letter from your university affirming your enrollment status, including details about your major and research activities.

Following these steps will help ensure a smooth and hassle-free international travel experience for F1 visa students.