Traveling internationally this summer? If you’re an F-1 or J-1 student or a J-1 scholar, make sure your travel signature is up to date before you go. Read on to find out if you need a new signature and how to get one.
What’s a travel signature?
The travel signature on page 2 of your I-20, or page 1 of your DS-2019, lets Customs and Border Protection (CBP) know that you have followed all the rules of your F-1/J-1 status when you re-enter the United States from abroad. You must have a valid, unexpired travel signature to successfully return to the U.S. after international travel.
Do I need a new travel signature to re-enter the U.S.?
That depends on when it expires. Before you travel, check the travel signature on your I-20 or DS-2019:
- F-1 OPT/STEM OPT students: Your signature must be less than six months old when you return.
- All other F-1 and J-1 students: Your signature must be less than one year old when you return.
- J-1 scholars: Your signature must be less than one year old when you return.
If your signature is still within that window when you get back, you’re all set. If not, you’ll need to get a new signature.
Do I need a new travel signature to leave the U.S.?
We strongly recommend requesting your travel signature well in advance of your departure. It’s one less thing to worry about while you’re away. If you’ve already left and have forgotten, no need to stress. You can request it from abroad via myIO, and we’ll email you the updated document. Keep in mind that a missing travel signature is not considered an ISSS emergency, so if we’re closed, please visit our ISSS page for guidance on next steps.
How do I get a travel signature?
If you don’t have a travel signature, or if yours will expire before you return, we’re here to help. Just drop by our Travel Signature Drive, 10 a.m.–noon, Wednesday, April 29, at Texas Global to get a same-day signature. Be sure to bring a print-out of your most recent I-20/DS-2019. We cannot print documents for you.
Can’t make it? No problem. Stop by our weekly Signature Hours or submit a request through myIO.
What else do I need to know before traveling?
Make sure you have a valid, unexpired passport and F-1/J-1 visa stamp as well as the other documents listed on our Know Before You Travel page.
Still have questions? Connect with an advisor. We’re happy to help.
Wishing you a smooth end to the semester and a well-deserved summer break!
This blog post was contributed by Mimi Ghosh, assistant director of the Student Advising Services team at ISSS
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