Travel
Domestic travel covers all travel within the United States. International travel is divided into two different categories for F-1 students: travel outside North America and travel to North American countries (Canada, the United States, Mexico, and adjacent islands). Students should obtain a tourist visa, if required, for each country they plan to visit. Please consult the list of foreign embassies located in Washington, DC for more information.
Domestic Travel
When traveling domestically in the United States you should carry your passport, I-94 card, and your valid I-20 or DS-2019 Form. No travel signature is needed on the immigration document. The visa stamp in the passport may be valid or expired.
International Travel
Students need to obtain a travel signature on page 3 of your I-20 (or page 1 of your DS-2019) from an International Student Advisor. The travel signature is valid for one year while pursing your degree; therefore, it is not necessary to get a new signature every time you travel within those periods. It is advisable, however, to carry copy of your unofficial transcripts. Unofficial transcripts can be printed in OPUS. Official transcripts may be requested from the registrar's office. If your visa will expire by the date that you intend to re-enter the United States, you will need to obtain a new visa from a U.S. Embassy or Consulate prior to presenting yourself for re-entry at the U.S. border. The process will be similar to the process when you applied for your initial visa, including providing proof of finances, completing forms, paying fees, and proving your non-immigrant intent. International students must return Form I-94 to an airline representative when departing the United States.
Checklist of documents needed when traveling outside of the United States includes:
- Passport valid at least six months into the future
- Valid student visa
- Valid I-20 (or DS-2019) Form with valid travel signature
- I-94 card