Coronavirus information for F1 & J1 students

Resources

A Proclamation on Advancing the Safe Resumption of Global Travel During the COVID-⁠19 Pandemic
NAFSA’s analysis of COVID Vaccine and Test Requirements for U.S. Entry

SEVP Immigration Updates for F-1 and J-1 Students

SEVP has communicated temporary changes to F-1 policy and practice through different communications (listed below). ISS continues to use this guidance as we advise students on their F-1 status during COVID-19.

• March 9, 2020 Policy Directive 
• July 14 news rescinding the July 6 SEVP guidance 
• July 24, 2020 Broadcast message, the
• Frequently Asked Questions for SEVP Stakeholders dated November 1, 2021, and

Students can also read COVID-19 Guidance from the government directly on the websites below:

• Department of Homeland Security – Study in the States: COVID-19 Resources
• Department of State guidance for J-1 students – Exchange Visitor Program Information on Coronavirus (COVID-19)

How can I get a new travel signature before traveling to the U.S.?

Students who are traveling to the U.S. should confirm that they have a valid travel signature before traveling to the U.S. It is helpful to review the Travel and Visas information and check the travel signature expiration date on page 2 of the I-20s. Travel signatures are valid for one year for continuing students. Students on OPT or STEM OPT need a new travel signature every six months.

Students with initial I-20 documents will not have a travel signature until after they have established their F-1 status in the U.S.
If your travel signature is expired, complete the Travel Signature request in your MyISSS profile. Allow up to 10 business days for processing. Once processed, you will receive a digital I-20 with an e-signature in your MyISSS profile.

Are there restrictions on returning to the U.S. from Canada or Mexico?

We recommend reviewing the Travel Restrictions Fact Sheet for updated information on land border closures with Canada and Mexico.  Before traveling from Canada or Mexico, we recommend checking for the most up-to-date information and you should be prepared to explain why your travel to the U.S. is “essential.”

What travel documents am I required to have when I enter the U.S.?

At this time, international students must have the following documents in order to travel to the U.S. in F-1 status:

• Valid I-20 issued by the UW (valid travel signature required if you are returning to the U.S. to continue studies)
• Valid passport that must be valid for 6 months beyond your expected return to the U.S.
• Valid F-1 U.S. visa stamp (Canadian citizens exempt)
• Proof of funding or financial evidence (recommended)
• Current quarter class schedule showing your courses (recommended)
• SEVIS I-901 Fee Receipt (recommended)

We recognize it is a highly stressful and unpredictable time, with travel options and restrictions changing frequently. Reentry to the U.S. is always at the discretion of U.S. Customs & Border Protection. For more information regarding re-entry requirements and how to prepare for possible questions, please visit the ISS Travel & Visas page.

My planned time outside the U.S. will be 5 months or more. I have heard there is a maximum 5-month limit. Can I still return to the U.S.?

The five-month rule is less strict under COVID-19 conditions and guidance.
ISS plans to work with students who are outside the U.S. to ensure their I-20s are valid when they return. Advisors continue to work with SEVP to activate student’s records who may have been outside the U.S. for over five months.
Students who are fully enrolled and outside the U.S. during the pandemic will have an easier time navigating this exception. Students who are not enrolled and are remaining outside the U.S. will need to complete the Return to UW process to request a new I-20.
Also, if your F-1 visa is still valid, you will not need to renew your visa regardless of the length of time outside the U.S.. If your existing visa has or will expire, you will be required to apply for a new visa before returning to the U.S. Review the Embassy or Consulate’s visa appointment information where you before you make final travel plans.

Which vaccines meet the requirement?

The University allows vaccines approved by the World Health Organization. See the University page for more details.

I am graduating and want to apply for OPT. Do I have to remain in the U.S.?

The I-765 form to apply for Optional Practical Training instructs you to submit the form within the United States. We recommend that you follow the instructions on the form. If you follow different instructions, we cannot provide guidance on how USCIS will respond or whether they will accept your application.

Can I work part-time while on OPT?

Yes. The SEVP guidance allows you to work part-time while on approved OPT. This part-time employment does not count as unemployment/underemployment.

Can I work remotely during Post-Completion OPT and/or the STEM OPT Extension?

Yes. Students can work remotely on OPT and STEM OPT. Students on STEM OPT do NOT need to submit a new I-983 form with remote work details. Students should keep accurate records of where they are working for their future reference.

International Student Health Insurance Program (ISHIP)

For updates on ISHIP waivers, remote medical care, benefits, and coverage information, review the ISHIP and Coronavirus FAQ page.