Travel in the USA
If you intend to travel within the U.S. during your stay, there are no special documents necessary. However, be sure to carry your passport, visa and I-20 so you will have legal identifying documents in your possession should any problems arise.
Travel to Canada, Mexico, and the Adjacent Islands
If you are traveling to Canada, Mexico, or the Adjacent Islands and have an expired F-1 visa you may be able to reenter the U.S. with an expired visa. This is known as Automatic Visa Revalidation. You are eligible for Automatic Visa Revalidation unless the following apply to you:
- You applied for a new visa and it has not been issued
- You applied for a new visa and were denied
- You have a terminated SEVIS record indicating that you are out of status
- You have been out the United States for more than thirty days
- You are a citizen of one of the following countries:
- Cuba
- Iran
- North Korea
- Sudan
- Syria
When traveling outside of the U.S.A., you should be sure that you have a travel signature on page 3 of your I-20. The travel signature is valid for one year, unless you are on Post-Completion Optional Practical Training (OPT), then the signature is valid for only six (6) months. To receive a travel signature, make an appointment with International Student Services or drop it off at least two business days before traveling.
Canadian Immigration and Citizenship Information
Mexican Migratory Documentation and Visa Information
Travel Outside of the USA
All students traveling outside of the U.S. for a temporary period (five months or less) must have a valid I-20 with the Designated School Official's signature for reentry. Your passport must also be valid for at least six months past your date of reentry. If your visa is expired, you will need to renew your visa at a U.S. Embassy/Consulate abroad before returning to the U.S., as you will not be permitted entry to the U.S. without a valid visa. It is recommended that you apply for a new visa in your home country, or country of legal residence. It is not recommended that you go to Canada to renew your visa unless you are a Canadian citizen or resident.
When traveling outside of the U.S.A., you should be sure that you have a travel signature on page 3 of your I-20. The travel signature is valid for one year, unless you are on Post-Completion Optional Practical Training (OPT), then the signature is valid for only six (6) months. To receive a travel signature, make an appointment with International Student Services or drop it off at least two business days before traveling.
Students who are outside of the United States for more than five months will need to receive a new, initial I-20 and apply for a new F-1 visa. The student's admission status and financial support will have to be verified before a new form can be prepared.
If you have any questions about your travel plans, contact the International Student Services at 330-490-7105.
Reminders:
- Check to see if the country(ies) you are visiting require you to obtain a visa (e.g. transit visa)
- If your visa has expired, you typically need to apply for a new visa at a US Consulate/Embassy abroad, plan your time accordingly.