Travel Advisory

Before traveling abroad, ensure that you have the required documents to re-enter the U.S., including: 

• Valid Passport (with at least 6 months remaining validity) 
• Form I-20 (F-1 students) or DS-2019 (J-1 students) with a valid travel signature 
• Valid U.S. F-1 or J-1 Visa 
• Class Schedule (if applicable) and for OPT students, your Employment Authorization Document and employment letter (if available) 

If any of your documents have expired or need updates, contact the OISS as soon as possible to ensure that everything is in order for your return. 

A valid travel signature on your Form I-20 (for F-1 students) or DS-2019 (for J-1 students) is required for re-entry into the United States after traveling abroad. Here is what you need to know: 

• Signature Validity: The travel signature is valid for 12 months for most students (or 6 months for those on Optional Practical Training (OPT)). 

• Requesting a Travel Signature: If your travel signature has expired, you must request a new one before your departure. Submit the Intention to Travel Form through the OISS portal. We recommend submitting your request at least three weeks before your departure to allow time for processing. 

• What’s Needed: Ensure that your passport, visa, and Form I-20 or DS-2019 are up-to-date before requesting the signature. 

Check your U.S. visa validity before leaving the United States. If your visa is expired or will expire before your return, you will need to renew it. Here is how to prepare: 

• Check Visa Validity: Ensure that your visa is valid through your return date to the USA. 

• Visa Renewal Process: If your visa will expire soon, visit the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in your home country to learn about the renewal process and estimated wait times. It is crucial to start this process well in advance. 

• Interview Waivers: If you need to renew your U.S. visa, it is important to check with the consulate or embassy where you will complete your visa renewal to confirm the document requirements. Some applicants may qualify for a waiver of the in-person interview, and the consulate will provide confirmation if you meet the specific criteria for an interview waiver. Be sure to review the consulate’s guidelines carefully and plan ahead to ensure a smooth renewal process.

Political and global events can affect your travel plans or visa processing times. Consider the following: 

• Change in U.S. Administration: While political transitions may bring potential changes in immigration regulations, no immediate impacts are expected. 

• Consular Post Closures: U.S. Embassies or Consulates may close unexpectedly due to natural disasters, political unrest, or other emergencies. 

• U.S. Political Sanctions: Travelers may experience delays or denials due to U.S. sanctions on certain countries or individuals. Be sure to check travel advisories for the country/countries you plan to visit while outside the USA.  

• Visa Denials/Revocations: In some cases, specific individuals or countries may face delays, denials, or visa revocations due to federal regulations. 

If you plan to travel to a country with political instability or other concerns, consult the U.S. Department of State travel advisories and reach out to OISS for personalized advice before finalizing your plans. 

US. Custom and Border Patrol (CBP) officers may ask questions about your studies and plans while in the United States. Be ready to explain your purpose of entry clearly and have all necessary documents ready for inspection.

Be prepared to present the following documents to CBP officers: 

• Valid Passport (with at least 6 months remaining validity) 
• Form I-20 (F-1 students) or DS-2019 (J-1 students) with a valid travel signature 
• Valid U.S. F-1 or J-1 Visa 
• Class Schedule for the current semester of enrollment (if applicable) and for OPT students, your Employment Authorization Document and employment letter (if available) 

Once you return, remember to: 

• Download your new I-94 from the U.S. Customs and Border Protection website and verify that all information is correct. 
• Upload copies of any new travel documents (including your updated visa, passport, or I-94) to your OISS student portal. 

• Always notify OISS before traveling abroad so we can assist you with the necessary steps to re-enter the U.S.A. 

• Stay updated by reviewing the OISS Travel Advisory page regularly for updates related to U.S. immigration policies, visa processing, or political developments. 

• If you have questions about your specific situation, contact the OISS team for personalized guidance at international@CalLutheran.edu or by scheduling an appointment.