Required documents for travel:

• Passport, valid at least 6 months after your date of entry into the U.S.
• Valid visa (some exceptions exist for Canada, Mexico, and adjacent islands, see Automatic Revalidation)
• I-20 or DS-2019 signed for travel in the past 6 months
• I-94
• EAD card, if you are currently on Optional Practical Training (It is also strongly recommended that you have a letter from your employer stating that you are fulfilling the OPT and acknowledging the period of travel.)
• Financial certification (required by law, but you may not be asked to present it)

DO NOT PACK THESE ITEMS IN YOUR LUGGAGE!  CARRY THEM WITH YOU AT ALL TIMES.

The following documents are helpful in verifying your activities as an F-1 student at the port of entry if an immigration official questions your immigration status:

• Copies of all previous I-20s issued to you
• Transcript of course work (See Office of University Registrar for details)
• Printout of current and future enrollment
• If you are on OPT or CPT, a letter from an employer acknowledging the travel and your salary amount

Driver’s License

Employment

Frequently Asked Questions
 

QUICK LINKS

Foreign Embassies in the U.S.

Visiting Canada

Visiting Mexico