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Do you have upcoming travel plans or need a new travel signature to return to the U.S. after spring break?

Travel Signatures

A valid travel signature is required to enter the U.S. in F-1/F-2 and J-1/J-2 status.

• A travel signature is generally valid for re-entry to the U.S. within one year from the date it is received or until the end date on the I-20 or DS-2019, whichever comes first. 
  • Exception: A travel signature for students authorized for OPT is only valid for six months. 

Please check your I-20 (p.2) or DS-2019 (p.1) to see when you last received a travel signature.

• If, on the date you will re-enter the U.S., your travel signature will be more than one year old or six months old if you are on OPT, then you must obtain a new travel signature from an ISSS advisor and travel with the newly signed document when you seek to re-enter the United States.

• Individuals who seek to re-enter the U.S. without a valid travel signature may be denied re-entry.

Obtaining a New Travel Signature

• Complete the (via DocuSign).
• Â鶹ÒùÔº with F-1 Status and Dependents with F-2 Status:
  • ISSS will reprint and email you a new I-20 with a new travel signature. Print the I-20, sign it on p.1. and carry it with you when you travel to the United States.
  • An electronic or digital travel signature is valid for the same duration as an ink signature.
• Exchange Visitors with J-1 or J-2 Status:
  • ISSS will reprint and mail you a new DS-2019 with a new travel signature. Sign the DS-2019 it on p.1. and carry it with you when you travel to the United States.

Your Return Travel

Plan ahead and travel smart! Please review the following resources:

• COVID-19 Vaccination Entry Requirements & Testing
• Student Travel Handout
• Scholar Travel Handout   

It is highly recommended that students travel with their proof of full-time enrollment.