The winter season is a time filled with holidays, travel, and reconnecting. Whether you are traveling home or taking a break, careful planning is key to a smooth and stress-free journey. Below, we have highlighted important information to help with a smooth return to the United States if you are planning to travel in the next few months.
Required Travel Documents
Make sure to carry the following documents with you:
- Valid Passport: Must be valid for at least six months beyond your re-entry date.
- Valid (unexpired) F-1 Visa Stamp
- Most Recent I-20 with a valid travel signature: UW DSO travel endorsement on page 2 must be no older than 6 months at the time of re-entry to the U.S.
- Proof of Employment or Training: Examples include a job offer letter, recent pay stubs, or a letter from your employer confirming continued employment. Employment letters should be dated & signed by HR or a hiring manager on company letterhead.
- OPT or STEM OPT EAD Card
SEVP Portal Employment Details
Verify your information is accurate in the SEVP Portal to avoid potential issues. This includes:
- Report any changes to your employment.
- Ensure your employment start and end dates are accurate.
- Verify your physical address is updated and current.
If you have trouble accessing the SEVP Portal, submit a request through UW’s MyISSS.
Considerations for Travel
We understand the upcoming new presidential administration creates uncertainty about changes to immigration policies, especially as you make decisions about traveling in the new year.
Here are some points to consider before finalizing travel plans:
- Stay Informed: The ISS team is closely monitoring F-1 immigration policies and will inform you of any developments that may impact your status. Rely on ISS updates, check our Government Updates page, or go to government resources directly. Avoid unverified news, rumors, and speculation. We don’t anticipate any changes to immigration policy before the new administration takes office on January 20.
- Assess Travel Risks: Before departing the United States, evaluate potential challenges you may encounter with re-entry. Although ISS cannot predict what may happen when the new administration takes office, there could be executive orders that disrupt travel on or after January 20. It is your decision when to travel, but consider potential risks.
- Prepare for Delays: Be ready for possible delays or policy changes that could impact your re-entry. Discuss options with your employer in case you are delayed.
If you have recently completed your program and are waiting for USCIS to approve your OPT application or are not currently employed, we recommend you do not travel outside the U.S. Without USCIS approval for OPT or proof of employment, you could be denied re-entry to the country. Review the OPT Frequently Asked Questions for further information about this.
If you have questions or would like to discuss your unique situation with an ISS advisor, Email Us or review our virtual and in-person Meet with Advisor options.