Information for F-1 students on OPT/STEM OPT
You may travel while on OPT/STEM. However, please keep in mind that you are still in F-1 status and need proof of your status when traveling. Your F-1 visa must be valid upon entering the U.S. Questions or concerns can be addressed by your immigration advisor. Please submit a Travel Signature Request a couple of weeks before you travel.
Travel Signature Endorsement and Validity
The signature on page 2 of 3 of the OPT I-20 is valid for 6 months from when it was signed. If your re-entry date is within 6 months from the last signature, you will be eligible to re-enter on that I-20. However, if you re-enter after the 6-month time frame, a new travel signature is required.
While Your OPT/STEM OPT Application is Pending
If you OPT application is currently pending with USCIS, we strongly recommend that you do not travel outside of the U.S. In cases of emergency, you should travel with the following documents:
- Valid travel signature from your immigration advisor on your most current I-20 (within 6 months of re-entry)
- I-797 receipt notice
- Letter from your employer indicating that you currently hold a job in your field of study and will be returning to the U.S. to resume employment
- Valid passport (valid for at least six months into the future at all times (especially important upon initial entry or re-entry to the U.S.)
- Valid F-1 visa upon re-entry
When Your OPT/STEM OPT Application is Approved
If your OPT application has been approved and you have a job offer or are currently working, you should travel with the following documents:
- Current I-20 (with valid travel signature from your immigration advisor dated within 6 months of re-entry and updated employment information on pg. 2)
- Valid EAD card (Employment Authorization Document)
- Letter from your employer indicating that you currently hold a job in your field of study and will be returning to the U.S. to resume employment
- Valid passport (valid for at least six months into the future at all times (especially important upon initial entry or re-entry to the U.S.)
- Valid F-1 visa upon re-entry
