Getting a travel signature from an OGS advisor is easy. For current students, your travel signature is valid for 1 year (unless the end date on your I-20 or DS-2019 is sooner). For those on post-completion Optional Practical Training or Academic Training, it is valid for 6 months. 

The travel signature is on page 2 of your most recent I-20 and the bottom right of page 1 of your DS-2019. If the signature on your I-20 or DS-2019 will expire before you reenter the US, you need to get a new signature. We may take up to 5 business days to complete your request. 

Please remember, the US government determines your eligibility to enter the US. Be prepared and have the necessary travel documents with you. If you are on post-completion, STEM OPT or Academic Training, review our travel instructions for alumni.

To update your travel signature 

Please complete the Travel Signature Request and OGS will email you with your updated document with an electronic travel signature. 

If your return date is within 3 days, please fill out the Travel Signature Request as soon as possible and indicate your anticipated return date. Although OGS cannot guarantee expedited processing, contact us by phone to inform us of your urgent travel request.

If you are already outside of the U.S and lost or forgot your I-20

If you must reenter the US in less than a week and are unable to receive an I-20/DS-2019 from the OGS, respectfully request that the officer at the US immigration crossing allows you to enter with Form I-515A. This gives you a thirty-day admission as an F-1 or J-1 student, and requires you to report to the OGS within that time frame to secure the required travel signature.

To qualify for the Form I-515A, you must have a valid passport, valid F-1 or J-1 visa, and your most recently issued I-20 or DS-2019 (the officer may allow you to enter without your I-20 or DS-2019 at his/her discretion).

See more