Spring Break Travel Reminders

Spring break is almost here! If you’re planning on traveling, make sure you have everything you need to get back to Austin without a hitch. 

Traveling inside the U.S.? 

Even for domestic trips, it’s smart to keep your immigration documents with you in case of an emergency. And if you’re venturing anywhere within 100 miles of the Mexico or Canada border, bring all your immigration documents and make sure your travel signature is valid, since U.S. Customs and Border Protection can stop you to check. 

Traveling internationally? 

If you are traveling to a country other than your home country, check whether you need a visa to visit. We cannot advise on other countries’ entry requirements, so check directly with that country’s consulate or embassy. 

To re-enter the U.S. from abroad, you will need the following: 

• Valid, unexpired passport 
• Valid, unexpired visa (exception: Canadian citizens do not need a visa) 
• Most recent F-1 I-20/J-1 DS-2019 with a valid travel signature. Travel signature must be less than a year old on the date you re-enter the U.S. 
• Official UT Transcript or Certification of Enrollment 
• SEVIS fee receipt 
• Proof of funding 

Need more information about these documents? Check out our Know Before You Travel page.  

Need a travel signature? 

Travel signature expired or missing? Here are three easy ways to get one: 

1. Drop by our upcoming Travel Signature Drive in the Texas Global Lounge for a same-day signature.  
2. Visit our office during Signature Hours for a same-day signature. 
3. Submit a travel signature request through myIO. Just remember to allow 10 business days for processing. 

Remember: It is your responsibility to have a valid signature upon reentry. Not having a travel signature is not considered a travel emergency, so plan ahead! 

We’re here if you need help! 

• Detailed travel information: See our Know Before You Travel page. 
• Quick questions: Drop by for Express Advising (no appointment needed).  
• Wednesdays, 1-3:30 p.m. 
• Fridays, 9-11:30 a.m. 
• Complex situations: Schedule a one-on-one appointment. 

Safe travels, and we’ll see you back in Austin! 

This blog post was contributed by Mimi Ghosh, assistant director of the Student Advising Services team at ISSS.