Documents to Carry
Are you an international student on post-completion OPT or Academic Training? Traveling outside of the US soon and need to reenter the US without a problem? Avoid a long wait in the airport immigration office by having these needed documents with you.
Items
Passport
An unexpired passport valid at least six months into the future.
I-20 or DS-2019
An unexpired I-20 or DS-2019 with a travel signature less than six months old. Read "How to Get a Travel Signature" if you need to get a new signature on your I-20 or DS-2019. F-1 students, be sure you have your printed I-20 with you. Do not rely on an electronic document.
F-1 or J-1 Visa Stamp
An unexpired F-1 or J-1 visa stamp valid for further entries into the United States (Citizens of Canada do not need an entry visa). Read "How to Get a New Visa" if your visa has expired and what you need to do to get a new one.
EAD or Employment Authorization Letter
An Employment Authorization Document (EAD) issued by the USCIS for F-1 students on practical training; or an employment authorization letter issued by the OGS for J-1 students on academic training.
SEVIS Fee Receipt
Proof that you have paid the SEVIS fee. Get your SEVIS fee receipt.
F-1 Students - Employer Letter
Get a letter from your employer stating your job title, job description, begin and end dates (must fall within the practical training period), and verifying that your employer knows you are traveling and expects you to return to complete your job. If you do not have a job, we advise you not to travel as you may face difficulties when re-entering the US.
OR
J-1 Students - Employer Letter
Get a letter from your employer stating your job title, job description, begin and end dates, and verifying that your employer knows you are traveling and expects you to return to complete your job.