travel outside us with ead card

Students seeking services can see our current  student services page , which includes virtual and in-person options. For J scholar and Employment-based services, please see our Contact Us page .

Travel and Re-entry to the U.S. While on OPT

Can i travel while on opt.

Entering the U.S. infographic

Useful Employment and Career Links

• Social Security Numbers
• Berkeley Career Engagement's Int'l Student Website
• Networking & Mingling
• U.S. Tax Reporting Requirements
• UC Berkeley Departments: Hiring Employees on F-1 OPT/STEM OPT
• U.S. Employer Guide for Hiring Int'l Students
• Student Discovery Hub
• Safe Practices for Researching Employers

Please note :  The information provided in this post was accurate and up-to-date at the time of posting. Due to the dynamic nature of immigration policy, it is possible that the information or links provided may have changed over time. Users are advised to verify the accuracy and relevance of the content.

Traveling while on OPT or OPT STEM Extension

In general, an F-1 student on post-completion OPT may travel outside the United States temporarily and be readmitted to resume F-1 status and employment for the remainder of the period authorized on his or her EAD card. The student must not have exceeded the maximum OPT unemployment or OPT STEM Extension unemployment time.

Please also review all general travel and re-entry information on the main Travel and Re-Entry page. 

WARNING: Re-entering the United States in a status other than F-1 (such as a tourist) will invalidate F-1 status and OPT authorization.

*Travel While OPT or OPT STEM Extension is Pending 

Travel during the OPT application process is allowed, but not recommended as it poses certain risks. Keep in mind the following:

• You will need to have someone monitor your mail and let you know if you receive any communications from USCIS.
• If you receive a Request for Evidence, you will need to respond by a specific deadline, which could be difficult from outside the U.S.
• For post-completion OPT:  If you are denied for OPT while outside the United States after your Program Completion Date, you will not be able to re-enter or reapply. Your F-1 status will end.
• For OPT STEM Extension: If you are denied for OPT STEM Extension while outside the United States after your OPT EAD end date, you will not be able to re-enter or reapply. Your F-1 status will end.
• If you are approved for OPT/STEM while outside the United States, you will need to arrange for your EAD card to be sent to you in order to re-enter the United States.
• If your F-1 visa is expired, you will need to reapply for an F-1 visa with your EAD card and proof of employment.
•  If you choose to travel while your application is pending, be sure that you are monitoring your mail. Sign up for an account with  USCIS Case Status online . C ommunicate with BIO about your travel plans. 

OPT/STEM I-20 Updates & Travel Endorsements

During OPT/STEM, the I-20 should be up-to-date with your current information, and the travel endorsement is only valid for 6 months .

• Employer Updates: If your OPT or STEM OPT is Approved, your I-20 should reflect the approval and your current employer on page 2. Follow instructions on the OPT Reporting page to log into the SSU Hub to upload your approved EAD card and to add any new employment. You'll receive a new I-20 via email in 5 business days with the new  employer.
• Travel Endorsement: To receive an updated travel signature, follow the instructions on our Travel Endorsement page .
• Replacement I-20: If you need a new OPT or STEM I-20, you can submit a  Replacement Document request (#13)  to receive a new I-20 with a new travel endorsement via email. (Note: BIO has a 5 business day processing time!

Getting an F-1 Visa Stamp During OPT/STEM

If a student's F-1 visa has expired and the student wishes to travel outside the United States, a new F-1 visa must be obtained before re-entering the United States. Students who need to apply for a new visa should consult BIO prior to travel to discuss the visa application process and possible risks. General Visa information can be found on the  Applying for a Visa  webpage. If your F-1 visa has expired, and OPT or OPT STEM Extension application is pending, you will NOT be able to apply for a new F-1 visa until the application is approved and you have the EAD. 

If You Are on OPT & Have a Pending or Approved H-1B or OPT Cap-Gap I-20

Please first check with your employer and the legal counsel processing your H-1B about your travel plans. Berkeley International Office can only advise you on travel as an F-1, but we cannot advise on how your travel might impact a pending or future H-1B request. Students travelling using an OPT Cap-Gap I-20 should see the H-1B Cap Gap page for more information.

Can I Travel While My Green Card is Processing?

When applying for a Green card, an applicant also has the opportunity to apply for Travel Authorization by filing Form I-131, Application for Travel Document . When filed along with the green card, this travel authorization–commonly also called “Advance Parole”–may take between 9-12 months, on average, to be adjudicated by USCIS. Due to this processing time, you may wonder what limitations there are on traveling while your green card application is pending. This article will explore some of those limitations. The purpose of this article is NOT to provide legal advice but rather to provide legal information regarding the Travel Authorization/Advance Parole document. Anyone seeking legal advice on whether or not they should travel while their green card is pending is encouraged to discuss it with a licensed immigration attorney. 

Before Travel Authorization is Granted

Traveling inside the US Before Travel Authorization is Granted Before USCIS grants the Travel Authorization/Advance Parole document, an immigrant can typically travel within the continental US while their green card application is still pending.

However, something to keep in mind is that until an applicant has received their receipt notices from USCIS confirming that USCIS has started processing their application, an applicant will not have proof of their pending green card application. This means that if they are traveling inside the US without a valid visa or status, they may not have proof of having legal status in the United States. Because of this, any interactions with US immigration while traveling presents the potential for issues.

Additionally, an applicant will want to be very cautious if traveling outside of the United States to non-continental US territories or states (such as Hawaii or Puerto Rico). In the case of an emergency landing or layover in a non-US territory or country, USCIS would consider that applicant as having left the United States, and the green card application would be considered abandoned.

Traveling outside the US Before Travel Authorization is Granted

After submitting a green card application, an applicant may only be authorized to leave the country and reenter the US once they have received the Travel Authorization/Advance Parole document. While this does not apply to certain dual-intent visas (such as the H1B or L1 visas)*, this does not apply to green card applicants whose non-immigrant visas previously allowed for travel. Non-immigrant visas (such as F1, TN, or B1/B2) are not authorized to travel outside the United States until their Form I-131, Application to Travel, has been approved. Doing so would result in the green card application being denied and could lead to misrepresentation investigations. 

*NOTE: While some dual-intent visas allow for continued travel while a green card application is pending, traveling on a dual-intent visa before the Advance Parole/Travel Authorization is approved likely means that USCIS will deny Form I-131 and will not grant Advance Parole. 

Overall, it can be beneficial for an applicant wishing to travel internationally to wait until USCIS has granted them Travel Authorization before they travel outside the United States. If this travel authorization is pending, an applicant would need to consider whether they have a valid document that will allow for their re-entry into the US and whether they accept the potential repercussions of abandoning their pending application and subsequent denial of the Green Card. 

Navigating Travel after Travel Authorization/Advance Parole is Granted–But While the Green Card application is Still Pending

Currently, the average wait time for the Travel Authorization/Advance Parole document adjudication is around 9-12 months, while the Green Card application itself may take anywhere from 12-24 months to be approved. Due to these timelines, USCIS will likely grant an applicant’s travel authorization while the Green Card application is still pending approval. 

When USCIS issues the Travel Authorization/Advance Parole document, an applicant is essentially authorized to travel in and out of the US while their green card is still being processed. However, after this travel authorization has been approved, there is still some risk that an applicant could experience difficulties re-entering the US or miss important USCIS notices while they are out of the country. This article will discuss these potential risks in greater detail below.

Risks of traveling While a Green Card application is pending

Risks during re-entry.

After international travel, re-entry into the United States is ultimately at the discretion of the US Customs and Border Protection agent, who inspects upon arrival. This means that even if someone has been granted Advanced Parole and has a valid travel authorization document, US Customs and Border Protection can still technically deny their re-entry. Thus, travel authorization does not guarantee entry into the United States.  While generally, there are no issues re-entering, there is always a risk. These cases are not typical, and you can diminish risk by following laws and regulations and not committing crimes that could jeopardize your ability to reenter the United States.

Risks of missing time-sensitive USCIS notices while traveling

The Biometrics Appointment In the weeks after someone submits a green card application, USCIS will mail them a notice with a scheduled biometrics appointment at a local Application Support Center (ASC). The appointment notice ( Form I-797C, Notice of Action ) will include the date, time, and location for the ASC appointment. It is recommended that this appointment is attended whenever possible, as it can be challenging to reschedule.

If you are traveling abroad on a dual-intent visa when you get the notice for the biometrics appointment, it could be challenging to return to the United States in time to make the appointment. Notices for Requests for Evidence When USCIS needs more information for a case, they issue a “ Request for Evidence ” (commonly called an RFE). The RFE letter comes in the mail, and USCIS typically outlines what documentation must be submitted and issues a deadline by which they must receive that information. They specify that the applicant must submit the requested documents to them before that deadline. Cases that do not respond to the RFE by that deadline will have their green card application denied. 

Applicants wishing to travel abroad while the green card application is pending will want to be aware that if they receive an RFE while they are away, they will need to respond to the RFE before the deadline or risk having their application denied. The Green Card Interview with USCIS In the months after completing your biometrics, USCIS will schedule an interview with a USCIS officer. This interview is conducted in person and is arguably the most important moment in the process of getting a green card. USCIS will mail you an appointment notice ( Form I-797C, Notice of Action ) which will include the date, time, and location for your interview. It is critical that applicants don’t miss this appointment. Be aware that, in some cases, USCIS can schedule the appointment within weeks of issuing the notice. If you are traveling abroad when you get the notice for the interview appointment, it could be challenging to return to the US in time to make the appointment.

Partner Immigration Attorneys Can Help You Plan

Navigating Travel while a Green Card application is pending presents many nuanced situations. If you have any questions about this topic or how this applies to your specific situation/visa, consider signing up for SimpleCitizen’s Professional Package–which allows you to discuss your questions and concerns with one of our independent partner Immigration Attornies. Learn more about what this package includes here: https://www.simplecitizen.com/pricing/

Can I use my dual intent visa (H1B or L1) to travel while my green card is pending?

If someone has proof of a valid dual-intent visa, they can travel while the green card is pending without the risk of USCIS deeming their case as abandoned. However, this does not apply to the O visa. Please refer to this article for more information about travel with an H1B visa. 

Can I travel using my K-1 visa?

The K visa serves as a single entry visa, meaning that once someone enters the US, they cannot use that visa again to leave and reenter the US. Instead, they would need to consider waiting for the travel authorization or the green card to be granted. 

Since an O-1B visa is considered dual intent, can someone use it to travel while they wait on travel authorization through their adjustment of status application?

The O-1 visa is a dual-intent visa in the context of visa approval but not in the context of travel authorization. As such, USCIS will consider that someone traveling abroad on an O visa while the green card application is pending (and before the travel authorization has not been granted) has abandoned the green card application, and this application will be denied. 

Was this article helpful?

Can I travel to other states for a holiday while waiting for green card,my k1 fiancé visa expires on 03/20/2020 and I would like to visit other state while waiting for my green card. Is it possible?

Hi Roksana, you can travel between states in the U.S. with your state-issued ID or your passport. You do not need an advance parole document to travel between states. Keep in mind traveling to Hawaii and Alaska if also fine, however, if your plane has to land outside of the U.S. for any reason, your green card application could be considered abandoned. Once you have your EAD/AP combo card, you can travel outside the U.S. while waiting for your green card.

Hey Matthew

What if you don’t have a valid visa on your passport to travel domestically while pending for a green card application

What about going to puerto rico when fingerprinting is not done yet? I am not in status now but have a valid Real ID Drivers license. can i go to puerto rico and come back to mainland without any issues?

Hi there, I received my IR5 visa (expiring soon) to then get my greencard. Due to travel restrictions because of COVID can I go to guam as my port of entry to activate the green card (giving my intended US address) and go to the US immediately/shortly after or could I go back home immediately and fly to the US later while I’m waiting for the greencard to arrive? Many thanks! Hope you’re all keeping safe!

I received my IR5 visa to activate a greencard. My visa will be expiring soon and because of travel restrictions due to COVID I can’t get to the US. Can my port of entry be Guam? And can I leave Guam once I activate the greencard on arrival? or do i have to wait in Guam until i receive the physical card? Or can I give my intended US address when i enter Guam and fly to that state to wait for my greencard? or alternatively give the my intended US address and leave Guam to go back home before flying back to the US later?

Many thanks, stay safe!

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, my grandmother had to postpone her travel back into the US. Consequently, her green card expired while abroad. However, during this time, her new green card DID arrive to her US address. She just currently does not have it in her possession.

She has booked travel to come back into the US very soon (within 6 months of last leaving the US, of course), however, in her possession on her day of re-entry, she’ll have her expired* green card. Her family has her new* green card here. Will we be able to give it to her at a point of entry when she travels back to the US? Or should we find a way to get her new green card to her person by her re- entry date?

THANK YOU for your assistance.

Marianna, How did she applied for new card abroad? Online? If yes, what about bio metrics and intreview? how did she pass this steps? Thank you!

Hello, I am a Canadian citizen, I am Waiting for I-485 interview, it was postponed due to coronavirus. I do have my advance parole. Can I travel to Canada after my green card interview. Please help !!!

Married to USC. My I-485 Interview was completed on 8/21/2020 and the IO was just collecting info virtually and separated us right after an oath and took about an hour to complete, nothing complicated. After a couple hours I got this message that the Interview was completed and the Case must be reviewed. I-130 is same status under review.

As this might take weeks, months or more than a year to make a decision (whatever). I have my 1st EAD Combo Card with I-131 endorsement valid till June 2021. My question is, Can I got to Canada and come back after a couple weeks because I have to file taxes and some other important things. What if they deny or worst possible when I am in Canada? Can my wife (US Citizen Petitioner) take any legal steps/actions in case denied and I can take steps from Canada?

My husband is waiting for his renewal can we still travel? Or what does he need to travel, we’re just waiting for the card and it’s taking long,…help!

I’m Gerrard from New York, United States. I lost my job a few months back after my divorce with my wife. I tried everything positive to make sure I took good care of my kids but all failed, and I was in debt which makes everything worse. I was kicked out of my home and i had to live with my neighbor after pleading with her to allow me stay with her for some days while i figure out how to get a home which she agreed, but no one was willing to help anymore. I bumped into this page from google and I was excited about this, then I contacted the hackers. I had just $200, so I pleaded with them to help me because of my condition but they never accepted. I believed in this, so I managed to pawn a few things and got $500. I ordered the $10,000 card and I got my card delivered to me by Ups 4 days later. I never believed my eyes! I was excited and upset as well, I managed to withdraw $2000 on the ATM and $2500 the second day. I went to Walmart and a grocery and bought a couple of things for $3000. The card got blocked the third day and I contacted them and I was told it’s a mistake from my end. I’m so happy, I have started all over again and have a good apartment with my kids you can contact him through is via email ([email protected])  

My company is currently in the process of applying for I-140 in premium processing. That said, I have plans to travel to my home country due to a family emergency. My question is: Can I travel outside the US before I-140 is applied? Secondly, once I-140 is approved, I understand there is a 6 month window where you can port your priority date to another company without having it revoked. Two follow-ups: 1. Do you have to be present in the US for the duration of 6 months? Does it include PTO? 2. Does the 6 month account for business days or calendar days? Thanks in advance for your help!

I applied for Green Card concurrently with I-485 (EB1C)and I-140 (husband’s). I-140 got approved in Sept 2018. Interview was completed in April 19. During Jan 2020, I had to travel abroad for 3 months. But due to Covid-19, I could return to the US only after 7 months. During this period my L-2 visa was valid but about to expire. I used my Advance Parole to enter USA. Question: Will a 7-month absence in the US will affect my prospects of Green Card Approval?

My son is 27 years old disabled. He left US June 24/2020 He is condition very difficult he need some treat other country but he is green card approved November 12/2020. He can comeback US?

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Can I travel outside of the U.S. after my EAD Card has been issued?

May 11, 2018 • knowledge, information, related articles.

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Travel during post-completion optional practical training (opt).

• Post-Completion OPT is Pending
• Post-Completion OPT is Approved

Summary of Guidance

This section applies only to F-1 students who have applied for or have been approved for Optional Practical Training (OPT) by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and want to leave and re-enter the U.S. after the completion of their academic program.

Before the completion of your academic program, the usual procedures for travel still apply. After completion of your academic program, the guidance for travel is related to whether your OPT has been approved yet or not.

Post-Completion OPT is Pending

If your post-completion OPT has not been approved, it is generally permitted (with the appropriate travel documentation) to leave and then re-enter the US, even if you do not yet have a job or job offer.

However, there are specific risks of travel outside the US which are unique to traveling with a pending OPT application. It is your responsibility to understand those risks and decide whether or not you choose to proceed with travel. For more information, please see Module 6 of our online OPT training , particularly the section titled "Understanding the Risks of Travel before Receiving EAD Card."

In order to have the best chance of re-entering the U.S. without problems when your post-completion OPT is pending, you should travel with the following documents:

• Passport (valid for six months after you plan to re-enter the U.S)
• Valid F-1 visa stamp in your passport (this requirement does not apply to Canadian citizens)
• I-20 (with a travel signature no older than six months *)
• I-765 receipt notice (Form I-797) If you need to apply for a new F-1 visa when your post-completion OPT application is pending, you should also be sure to have your I-765 receipt notice (Form I-797) in addition to the usual documents required for a visa application.

Post-Completion OPT is Approved

If your post-completion OPT has been approved (EAD card has been issued by USCIS) and you have a job or a job offer, you may leave and re-enter the U.S. in order to begin or resume employment.

After USCIS has issued an EAD card for post-completion OPT, in order to have the best chance of re-entering the U.S. without problems, you should be sure you have the following documents:

• Passport (valid for six months after you plan to re-enter the U.S.)
• I-20 (with a valid travel signature no older than six months*)
• Evidence that you already have a job in the U.S. or that you have a job offer.

If you need to apply for a new F-1 visa, you should also be sure to have your EAD card and evidence that you already have a job in the U.S. or that you have a job offer in addition to the usual documents required for a visa application.

* Regulations state that during post-completion OPT, the travel signature should be no older than six months. The International Center recommends while on post-completion OPT that you get a valid travel signature every six months. Source: 8CFR214.2(f)(13)(ii)

Customs and Border Protection officers are authorized to exercise discretion on a case-by-case basis on all nonimmigrant admissions, and traveling with either Pending or Approved OPT is no exception. Re-entry to the U.S. is never guaranteed.

To give yourself the best chance of a smooth re-entry to the US, be sure to possess the documents listed above, depending on if your OPT application is in Pending or Approved status at the time you are requesting re-entry to the US.

For more information about F-1 travel with either pending or approved OPT, please visit our OPT online training (see Module 6) and also see the U.S. Department of Homeland Security FAQ for F-1 Travel .

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Travel on OPT and STEM Extension

• For Students

If you want to travel outside the country while on post-graduate OPT or OPT with STEM extension, you will need to follow certain rules and carry various documents in order to reenter the United States. 

Be aware that post-graduate OPT is an extension of your F-1 status. If you return to the United States in another status—as a tourist, for example—it will invalidate your F-1 status and OPT authorization. 

Travel Documents for F-1 OPT

If you will be traveling during your 12-month opt....

You will need the following documents to reenter the United States:

• Valid passport 
• Valid F-1 visa stamp (Canadians excepted) 
• I-20 showing F-1 status, with travel signature within the last six months
• Employment authorization document (EAD) card or, if your OPT application is still pending, the receipt notice from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS)
• A job-offer letter or letter confirming current OPT employment

Can I travel abroad if I’ve applied for OPT but haven’t graduated?

Before you graduate, you should be able to get back into the United States without an OPT card, as long as your graduation is still at least one month away. Your reentry will be based on your return as a current student. Your OPT application will have no impact on your travel.

If your graduation is coming in less than one month, and you want to reenter the United States in F-1 status, you have probably already applied for OPT. Instead of an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) card, you will need to show the USCIS I-797 receipt notice of your OPT application , along with all of the other documents needed to enter the United States while on OPT. If you have questions about traveling close to graduation, talk with one of our advisors before you leave.

I’ve graduated, but I don’t have my OPT approval. Can I travel abroad?

If you have applied for OPT, we suggest you do not travel internationally before it is approved, and you have your employment authorization document (EAD) card. If your OPT application is denied while you are abroad, you cannot reenter the United States in F-1 status to reapply for OPT.

I’m waiting for my OPT approval. Can I leave the country and return on a tourist visa?

No! If you intend to continue working on OPT, never enter the United States in any other immigration status except F-1. If you leave the country and reenter with B status (tourist visa), you will lose your F-1 status, and your OPT will be invalid!

The visa stamp in my passport has expired. How can I travel?

If you are going to Canada or Mexico and staying for less than 30 days, you can reenter the United States on your expired F-1 visa stamp. You will need all of the other documents required for travel on OPT, and you must fulfill these requirements:

• You do not apply for a United States visa while in Canada or Mexico.
• You are not from one of the countries currently considered by the U.S. federal government to be state sponsors of terrorism. The current list includes Iran, North Korea, Syria, and Sudan.

If you are traveling elsewhere than Canada or Mexico, you will need to go to a U.S. embassy or consulate while you are abroad and apply for a new visa stamp. Find out how to apply for F/J Reentry . 

Before leaving on your trip, contact us to talk with an advisor . The consulates often change the visa application requirements for students on OPT.

How is my application for a new visa stamp affected by OPT?

When you have graduated, and you are on OPT, you have a somewhat higher risk of being denied renewal of your visa stamp. This is because your F-1 student visa requires that you intend to return to your home country at the end of your study program. 

Now that you are on OPT, it may be harder for you to convince the embassy official of your intent to return home. If the official is not convinced, your visa application will be denied. However, many students on OPT do get their F-1 visa stamps renewed. If you’re concerned, please talk with one of our advisors.

Do I still need to get a travel signature while on OPT?

Yes! While you are on OPT, if you travel outside the United States, you need to have the travel line on your I-20 signed every six months. Please submit a travel signature reprint request .

Travel Documents for OPT STEM Extension 

If you will be traveling while on opt stem extension....

• Employment authorization document (EAD) card for OPT with STEM extension
• A job-offer letter or letter confirming current OPT STEM employment

Note: Be aware that while OPT STEM is pending approval by USCIS, you may be questioned by a Customs and Border Protection officer when seeking entry to the US. It is best practice to avoid travel until your OPT STEM is approved by USCIS and you have your OPT STEM EAD.

I’m waiting for my OPT STEM approval. Can I leave the country and return on a tourist visa?

No! If you intend to continue working on OPT or OPT STEM, never enter the United States in any other immigration status except F-1. If you leave the country and reenter with B status (tourist visa), you will lose your F-1 status, and your OPT/OPT STEM will be invalid!

The visa stamp in my passport has expired. How can I travel on OPT STEM?

If you are going to Canada or Mexico and staying for less than 30 days, you can reenter the United States on your expired F-1 visa stamp. You will need all of the other documents required for travel on OPT STEM, and you must fulfill these requirements:

Before leaving on your trip, contact us to talk with an advisor . The consulates often change the visa application requirements for students on OPT STEM. 

Can I travel internationally if my application for OPT STEM is pending?

While you may travel out of the United States and reenter while your OPT STEM extension application is pending, be advised that your eligibility for re-entry may be questioned by a Customs and Border Protection officer . We recommend waiting until your OPT STEM extension is approved by USCIS and you have your OPT STEM employment authorization document (EAD) . If you choose to risk travel during this time, have a copy of the I-797 receipt for your OPT STEM application along with the other documents required for travel while on OPT.

How is my application for a new visa stamp affected by OPT STEM?

When you have graduated, and you are on OPT or OPT STEM extension, you have a somewhat higher risk of being denied renewal of your visa stamp. This is because your F-1 student visa requires that you intend to return to your home country at the end of your study program. 

Now that you are on OPT or OPT STEM, it may be harder for you to convince the embassy official of your intent to return home. If the official is not convinced, your visa application will be denied. However, many students on OPT do get their F-1 visa stamps renewed. If you’re concerned, please talk with one of our advisors.

Do I still need to get a travel signature while on OPT STEM?

Yes! While you are on OPT or OPT with STEM extension, if you travel outside the United States, you need to have the travel line on your I-20 signed every six months. Please submit a travel signature reprint request

Next Up:  Invite Friends or Family (B-2)  

Campus Resources

Optional Practical Training and Travel

After graduation the rules for re-entry for F-1 students are different from the rules when you are a student entering the United States to begin or continue your program of study. Review this information carefully before making any travel plans after graduation.

If your OPT application is still pending with USCIS, ISSS does not recommend that you travel outside the United States.  You should wait until you receive your EAD card and have a job offer before traveling. Please remember that USCIS processing time may take three months or more.

Once your OPT application is approved:

After you receive your EAD card, you may travel outside the U.S. with the following required documents:

• Valid passport
• Valid F-1 visa inside your passport allowing re-entry
• I-20 endorsed for OPT (ISSS staff signature on page 2 must be less than 6 months old)
• Your EAD card
• A letter from your employer stating you are re-entering the United States to resume (begin) employment with them

To check on the progress of your EAD card, go online .

If you have questions about travel while on OPT, contact ISSS staff before you leave the United States.

Travel outside the United States and days of unemployment

If a student whose approved period of OPT (as indicated on the EAD card) has begun then travels outside of the United States while unemployed, the time spent outside the United States will count as unemployment against the 90 days for OPT and 150 days for the 24-Month STEM OPT extension period.

If a student travels while employed either during a period of leave authorized by an employer or as part of their employment, the time spent outside the United States will not count as unemployment.

Go online for more information on F-1 regulations regarding days of unemployment.

General advice

The best general advice is that an F-1 student on OPT who has received the EAD card and has to travel abroad should make sure there is documentation from his or her employer confirming the employment or their job offer. Otherwise the student assumes a risk that he/she may not be allowed to re-enter the United States.

OPT and applying for a new F-1 visa abroad

If you need to renew your F-1 visa, you must have your I-20 endorsed for OPT, an official transcript from Binghamton University (and proof of your degree if you have graduated), your EAD card (or receipt notice) and proof of a job or job offer as minimum documentation requirements.

Travel abroad when a petition for a different visa has been filed

Students on OPT who have a pending or approved petition for a different non-immigrant or immigrant visa (for example, H-1B) are urged to consult with the individual filing their petition (such as an attorney) for advice on travel. A pending application for H-1B that has not yet been approved will be considered to have been abandoned if the beneficiary travels abroad. A pending application for permanent residency will also be considered to have been abandoned unless the beneficiary has a valid advance parole document. If a petition has been approved, it is essential to consult with the individual who has filed the petition for advice on travel and documentation.

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Last Updated: 5/17/23

I have mailed my OPT application, when can travel outside of the US?

• Knowledge Base
• I have mailed my OPT application, when can travel …

For student applying for Post-Completion OPT, it is recommended that you wait until you receive your paper Receipt Notice in the mail from USCIS before traveling (within 2-3 weeks of filing).  If you request with your OPT application an electronic (email/text) notification of USCIS receipt of the application (within 1 week of filing), it is possible to travel after receive of that confirmation.

IMPORTANT NOTE: A student can travel outside the U.S. while an OPT application is pending as long as they re-enter the U.S. before their program completion date. A student who would travel outside the U.S. and want to re-enter after their program completion date will require the OPT application to be Approved, have received the Employment Authorization Document (EAD) card, and have a job offer letter in order to return to the U.S. on or after the start date on the EAD card. All of these documents would also be required if the student needed to apply for and obtain a new F-1 visa from the U.S. Consulate abroad in order to re-enter the U.S. 

Please see additional details about Travel after the Completion of Program while on Post-completion OPT on the F-1 Practical Training page of ISO website. 

Also in this category:

20 ARTICLES

A Green Card application has been filed on my behalf, and the Form I-140 has been approved, can MIT continue to issue Form I-20/Form DS-2019 for me to maintain my F-1 or J-1 student status and authorized F-1/J-1 benefits?

My F-1 OPT/STEM OPT application has been approved but I have not received the EAD card, what can I do?

For F-1 Off-Campus Employment, all positions must be directly related to my MIT degree “major field of study” – is there any guidance on how to determine “directly related”?

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When traveling outside the U.S. while on OPT or AT please be sure that you have all the required documents listed below for reentry to the U.S. If you left the U.S. and realized that you do not have all the required documents, please click here for instructions.

F-1 Students on Optional Practical Training (OPT) after Graduation

For comprehensive OPT travel information, including a brief recorded travel video, please see here .

Travel before your I-20 program end date

You can travel the way that you always have with:

• a valid Form I-20, signed on page 2 by an HIO advisor (the signature must not be more than 12 months old at the time of reentry to the U.S.)
• an unexpired passport
• an unexpired F-1 visa in the passport (except for Canadian citizens). If your F-1 visa is expired at the time of your reentry to the U.S. you must apply for a new F-1 visa to reenter the U.S.

The above also applies to your F-2 dependents.

Travel after your I-20 program end date while OPT application is pending

International travel while an OPT application is pending can be risky and is not generally recommended. If you have an OPT application pending and believe you must travel, please contact your HIO advisor .

Entry to the U.S. in any status other than F-1 OPT will invalidate your OPT work authorization.

This also applies to your F-2 dependents.

Travel after I-20 program end date and OPT approval

You must have ALL documents listed below in order to travel and reenter the U.S. while on an approved period of OPT.  In many cases you may also need to apply for a new F-1 visa before you may return to the U.S.

• a valid Form I-20, signed on page 2 by an HIO advisor (the signature must not be more than six months old at the time of reentry to the U.S.)
• an OPT EAD issued by USCIS . Printed on the EAD is the statement "Not valid for reentry." This statement means that the EAD alone is not valid for reentry.             
• evidence of a job offer or evidence of resumption of employment

Students who have the documents listed above may travel outside the United States and reenter even before the date their work permission begins. For example, an F-1 student who graduates in May with an OPT EAD that begins in July may travel and return to the United States any time after graduation.

Travel on Cap Gap Extension

Generally speaking, you may travel abroad and seek readmission to the U.S. in F-1 status during a Cap-Gap period if:

•  your H-1B petition and request for change of status has been approved;
•  you seek readmission before your H-1B employment begins (normally at the beginning of the fiscal year, i.e., October 1); and
•  you are otherwise admissible.

Please note, traveling outside the U.S. may interfere with the processing of your H-1B petition. HIO strongly advises that you consult with your employer and their legal counsel processing the H-1B regarding all travel plans before departing the U.S.  Click here  to access the latest travel information from the USCIS.

F-2 Dependents of Students on OPT

• Valid Form I-20, signed on page 2 by an advisor in the HIO (the signature must not be more than six months old at the time of reentry to the United States)
• Valid F-2 visa in the passport (except for Canadian citizens)
• Valid passport
• Photocopy of spouse's EAD

F-1 Students on STEM OPT Extension

Travel while stem opt application is pending, but before the post-completion opt ead expires.

You must have ALL documents listed below in order to travel and reenter the U.S.:

• unexpired Post-Completion OPT EAD card
•  an unexpired F-1 visa in the passport (except for Canadian citizens). If your F-1 visa is expired at the time of your reentry to the U.S. you must apply for a new F-1 visa to reenter the U.S.

Travel while STEM OPT application is pending, after the Post-Completion OPT EAD expires

You can travel abroad and reenter the U.S. with your expired Post-Completion OPT EAD card and the original receipt notice for your STEM OPT application issued by USCIS. You cannot travel with an email or text confirmation, or a printout of your online case status, in lieu of the physical receipt notice. This only applies during the 180 day period of authorized employment while your STEM OPT application is pending.

For reentry to the U.S. with a pending STEM OPT application, you should carry:

• Expired Post-Completion OPT EAD card
• USCIS-issued receipt notice for your STEM OPT application
• an unexpired F-1 visa in the passport (except for Canadian citizens)*. If your F-1 visa is expired at the time of your reentry to the U.S. you must apply for a new F-1 visa to reenter the U.S. with. For instructions, please see below.
• Evidence of a job offer or evidence of resumption of employment

*You can apply for a new F-1 entry visa using the documents listed above, including the expired Post-Completion OPT EAD card and the original receipt notice for your STEM OPT application issued by USCIS. You cannot apply for a visa with an email or text confirmation, or a printout of your online case status, in lieu of the physical receipt notice. Follow the regular procedures to apply for an F-1 visa outside of the U.S.

If needed, the following guidance from the U.S. Department of State describes the ability to travel and apply for a renewed visa during the 180 day period following the expiration of your Post-Completion OPT EAD while your STEM OPT EAD is pending: Applicable Federal Guidance: U.S. Department of State Foreign Affairs Manual - 9 FAM 402.5-5(N)(6)(e)

“As the STEM OPT extension is automatic for the first 180 days following regular post-completion OPT (when the student has properly filed Form I-765), the student may not necessarily have a renewed EAD. Therefore, any students having automatically authorized employment through the OPT extension may not be able to present a valid EAD when they apply to renew their visa. However, F-1 students in this situation can request an updated I-20 from the DSO , annotated for the STEM OPT extension, as well as proof that the I-765 petition was filed in a timely manner. You must confirm that the student’s electronic SEVIS record contains the same information as the updated hard copy Form I-20 before issuing a visa.” The preamble to the 24-month STEM OPT rule [81 FR 13103 par. 774] states:

“Students on STEM OPT extensions (including those whose application for a STEM OPT extension is pending) may travel abroad and seek reentry to the United States in F-1 status during the STEM OPT extension period if they have a valid F-1 visa that permits multiple entries and a current Form I-20 Certificate of Eligibility endorsed for reentry by the DSO within the last six months. The student’s status is determined by CBP upon admission to the United States or through a USCIS adjudication of a change-of-status petition.”

Travel after STEM OPT approval

You must have ALL documents listed below in order to travel and reenter the U.S. while on an approved period of STEM OPT. 

• a STEM OPT EAD issued by USCIS. Printed on the EAD is the statement "Not valid for reentry." This statement means that the EAD alone is not valid for reentry.              
• an unexpired F-1 visa in the passport (except for Canadian citizens). If your F-1 visa is expired at the time of your reentry to the U.S. you must apply for a new F-1 visa to reenter the U.S. with.

Entry to the U.S. in any status other than F-1 STEM OPT will invalidate your STEM OPT work authorization. 

F-2 Dependents of Students on STEM OPT

• Valid SEVIS Form I-20, signed on page 2 by an advisor in the HIO (the signature must not be more than six months old at the time of reentry to the United States)

J-1 Students on Academic Training (AT) after Graduation

• Valid Academic Training DS-2019 signed once a year in the "travel validation" section by an HIO advisor or by your J-1 program sponsor*
• Valid J-1 visa in the passport (except for Canadian citizens)**
• A letter from your employer as evidence of employment

* If the HIO issued your DS-2019 it must be signed in the 'travel validation' section by an advisor in the HIO. If your form was issued by another Exchange Visitor Program (Fulbright, AMIDEAST, etc.) you should contact that organization directly to obtain travel signatures.

**If you are on post-completion AT and have a pending or approved H-1B petition, you are required to prove ties to your home country. Please consult your HIO advisor before applying for an J-1 visa while on post-completion AT.

You must not use a tourist visa unless you are truly tourists, and plan on abandoning your J-1 Academic Training.

If your J-1 visa is expired at the time of your reentry to the U.S. you must apply for a new J-1 visa to cover your AT time. Please click here for information on renewing your J-1 visa.

J-2 Dependents

• Valid Form DS-2019 signed once a year in the "travel validation" section by a Responsible Officer of your spouse's Exchange Visitor Program
• Valid J-2 visa stamp in the passport (except for Canadian citizens)
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Travel on AP

Once you get AP or EAD/AP combo or AP card, you can travel outside US and come back. You don’t need any visa for the entry into US. Traveling on AP/EAD may change your status in US, check with your attorney before traveling.

AP Travel FAQ

Yes, better inform attorney and your company HR before traveling. If you face any issues at port of entry, then keep their contact handy.

• Salary Slip for the last 2 months, including the latest one
• Bank statement showing salary being credited to your account
• Employment offer letter
• Company ID card (if any)
• I-485 receipt (Very Important, including dependent)
• I-140 approval notice (if your employer has shared with you)
• EAD and AP (Very Important, including dependent)
• Have your manager or HR phone number handy. In a very rare case, they might contact them to inquire about you. This may happen if they put you for secondary inspection in port of entry
• Educational certificate
• Previous work experience letter (if any)
• Previous L1 / H1B visa 797 approval notice
• Your dependent previous L2 / H4 extension approval notice (if dependents are traveling with you)

AP is always better for the travel as you don't need to go for a visa stamping. But at port of entry you may have to go twice for the inspection.

Travelers using an advance parole document to enter the U.S. may be taken into secondary inspection, where an officer will confirm that s/he has an adjustment of status application pending. The secondary inspection process can be lengthy, and travelers should allow at least two hours for the process to be completed. ref

Yes. When you re-enter the U.S. pursuant to a valid AP document, you will be issued a new I-94 card in either paper or electronic format. If entering the U.S. through an air or seaport, you will be provided with an annotated stamp in your passport and you will be directed to download a copy of your I-94 at http://www.cbp.gov/i94. If you are entering the U.S. via a land port of entry, you will continue to be issued a paper I-94 card. You will be paroled into the U.S. for a period of up to one year. Thus, your I-94 card will only be valid for a period not to exceed one year from the date of your entry into the U.S. Note that this I-94 expiration date is not relevant for status purposes or AP document validity purposes. Please see the next section regarding maintenance of status while an adjustment of status application is pending with the USCIS. ref

Yes, you can do that. You need to keep renewing H1B. Discuss with your attorney before taking a decision. Also check

No. Departure from the U.S. while an AP application is pending will result in the abandonment and denial of the application. Discuss with your attorney before traveling.

It is not recommended to travel when H1B is pending but if you still need to travel then there is a way. Discuss with your attorney for that option.

Traveling while on OPT

Traveling outside the u.s., while your application for opt is pending.

Although the regulations allow you to travel outside of the US and re-enter the country to search for employment with a pending OPT, you must be certain that you will return before your EAD card is issued or you will forfeit your OPT. This is very risky because you do not know when your OPT will be approved. Therefore, you are advised  not  to leave the US while your OPT is pending.

After your OPT has been approved but before you have a job offer

Whether you have received your EAD card or not,  do not  leave the country. If your OPT has been approved and you depart the US before getting a job, your OPT ends and you cannot re-enter unless you have a written job offer.

After your OPT has been approved and you have a job offer

Whether you have received your EAD card or not, you may travel outside of the US. You should be prepared to present:

• A valid SEVIS I-20 endorsed by a DSO within 6 months
• A valid F-1 entry visa
• A passport that is valid for at least 6 months into the future
• A valid EAD card or I-797 Receipt Notice
• An offer letter on company letterhead indicating that you are/will be employed, including specific dates of employment

If my visa is expired

You may travel outside of the US, but you will need to visit a US consulate abroad to apply for a new F-1 visa before returning. 

Note:  Some consular posts may not grant a new student visa in this situation.

Material on this Web site is general and for informational purposes only. It does not constitute or replace professional legal advice, and you should not rely on it solely when making decisions about your immigration status or reporting requirements.

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SEVP made every effort to provide complete answers to these common questions. However, each person’s individual circumstances differ. So while these questions and answers serve as a general guide, they may not provide all the information you need to determine whether it is appropriate to travel or whether U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) will re-admit you to the United States. You can contact your designated school official, officials at your embassy or consulate or your legal counsel for further assistance.

Please remember that the CBP officer at the port of entry decides whether to admit non-immigrants into the United States. The facts and circumstances presented at the time you apply to enter are the basis of this decision. SEVP cannot guarantee that CBP will admit or re-admit you into the United States.

Travel Re-entry: F Visa

Re-entry for f-1 non-immigrants travelling outside the united states for five months or fewer.

This section of the FAQ applies to continuing F-1 students who travel outside the United States for five months or less.

Students should consult their Designated School Official (DSO) prior to travelling. Your DSO generally works in the International Student Office. You must have a current SEVIS Form I-20 endorsed for travel and your DSO needs to be able to verify that your SEVIS record is accurate and up-to-date.

What are the basic requirements for an F-1 to re-enter the United States after travelling abroad on pleasure or personal business?

• A Form I-20, endorsed for travel and signed by your DSO
• You have been out of the United States for less than five months
• A current passport valid for at least six months after the date of your reentry or, if you are from one of the countries listed below, a passport that is current through the date of entry
• A valid, current visa or you travelled to contiguous country or adjacent island for less than thirty days
• Financial information showing proof of necessary funds to cover tuition and living expenses

If you are from a visa exempt country, you do not need a visa to reenter the United States from the western hemisphere, but make sure that you present your I-20 to be admitted as an F-1 student and not a visitor.

What if I have an expired passport or one that will expire in less than six months?

You must renew your passport before re-entering the United States. In most cases, to enter the United States, you must have a passport that is valid for at least six months after the date you enter or re-enter.

However, the countries listed below have an agreement with the United States that allows you to enter on a current passport up to the actual date of expiration.

Try to keep your passport current at all times. You need to determine your country’s requirements and timelines for renewing passports. Many countries will allow you to renew your passport while in the United States. The other alternative is to renew your passport when you return home for a visit.

In some cases, you may want to delay leaving the United States until you have renewed your passport. You will not be able to re-enter the United States without a valid passport. If your expired passport has a valid visa, you can still use that visa if you kept the old passport. Present the old passport, along with the new passport when you reenter the country. The countries that have an agreement with the United States allowing entry with a passport until the date of expiration are as follows:

• Antigua and Barbuda
• Bosnia-Herzegovina
• Cote D’Ivoire
• Czech Republic
• Dominican Republic
• El Salvador
• Hong Kong (certificates of identity and passports)
• Liechtenstein
• Netherlands
• New Zealand
• Philippines
• St. Kitts and Nevis
• St. Vincent and the Grenadines
• Slovak Republic
• South Africa
• Switzerland
• Trinidad and Tobago
• United Arab Emirates
• United Kingdom

What if my F-1 student visa has expired?

You can stay in the United States on an expired F-1 visa as long as you maintain your student status. However, if you are returning home or traveling to a country where automatic revalidation does not apply, you must have a valid visa to return to the United States.

Ensure that you have all the documentation you need for your visa application and allow sufficient time for processing a new visa. The documentation you may need for a new visa includes, but is not limited to the following:

• A Form I-20, endorsed for travel and signed by your DSO (see your DSO before you travel)
• Original evidence showing proof of necessary funds to cover tuition and living expenses
• Evidence showing your intention to return to your home country upon program completion, including evidence of compelling social and economic ties to your home country
• If you have applied for or had optional practical training (OPT) approved, bring a copy of your Form I-20 endorsed for OPT and your Employment Authorization Document (EAD), if you have one

The Department of State recommends that you apply for a visa in your home country. For more information about visa applications visit the Department of State (DoS) website at http://travel.state.gov/ .

You can apply in a third country for a visa, but you will not be able to return to the United States until DoS issues your visa. In some cases, this could take several weeks if DoS requires a background check. If DoS denies your visa, you will not be able to return to the United States. Be sure to check the DoS website for specific information pertaining to each embassy or consulate.

If you have an expired visa and a terminated record, we strongly advise that you do not travel outside the United States until your SEVIS record shows that you are in active status. If you do travel, you may not be able to renew your visa or return to the United States.

As a continuing student, will I need to pay the I-901 SEVIS fee if I travel outside the United States?

No. See the I-901 FAQ for detailed information on the I-901 SEVIS fee.

I wish to travel to Canada, Mexico, or one of the islands adjacent to the United States. Can I return if my visa is expired?

Yes, in most cases. You can usually revalidate an expired visa automatically when returning from a visit of less than thirty days to Canada, Mexico, or one of the islands adjacent to the United States provided that you have a valid Form I-20 and a valid unexpired Form I-94. This process is known as automatic visa revalidation.

Which islands are defined as “adjacent islands”?

The adjacent islands are:

• Saint Pierre
• The Dominican Republic
• The Bahamas
• The Windward and Leeward Islands
• Other British, French, and Netherlands territory or possessions in or bordering on the Caribbean Sea

(INA, Section 101(b)(5))

Can I travel to Cuba and return to the United States?

Yes, provided that you have a valid visa to return and are otherwise admissible. Please note that Cuba may require you to apply for a visa in order to enter that country.

Do I need a valid visa to visit Puerto Rico, or the U.S. Virgin Islands, or the Northern Mariana Islands?

No, unless your travel plans include entry to any other country en route to these U.S. territories. You will need a valid Form I-20 and a valid unexpired Form I-94. Be sure that you do not have a terminated SEVIS record indicating that you are out of status.

How do I know if I have a terminated record in SEVIS?

Your DSO can tell you your SEVIS record status and give you appropriate travel related advice.

I want to travel outside the United States, but my SEVIS record is in terminated status. Can I return if I travel?

If you need to travel on a terminated record, you must first visit your DSO. If your school has requested a correction request or data fix, the DSO will put your correction request or help desk ticket number on your Form I-20 and report your pending travel to SEVP.

There is no guarantee that Customs and Border Protection (CBP) will readmit you to the United States if you travel on a terminated record. In most cases, CBP inspectors will allow you to reenter the United States if you are otherwise admissible and your DSO has properly annotated your Form I-20. It is likely, however, that the CBP officer at the port of entry will send you to secondary inspection while they determine whether you are eligible to return to the United States.

If you have an expired visa and a terminated record, SEVP advises you not to travel outside the United States until your SEVIS record shows that you are in Active status. If you do travel, you may not be able to renew your visa or return to the United States.

Can I travel outside the United States if I have a Form I-485 adjustment of status application pending?

No, not without advance permission. If you depart the United States with a pending Form I-485, you have abandoned your application unless you receive permission in advance from USCIS to return to the United States. We call this Advance Parole . Additionally, CBP may also consider you ineligible to return to the United States as an F-1 student because your application to change status to that of a permanent resident is evidence of intent to immigrate, which is inconsistent with nonimmigrant student status.

Can I re-establish F-1 student status by obtaining a new initial Form I-20 and reentering the United States?

Yes. However, you will be considered an initial student for SEVIS purposes. You will have to pay the I-901 SEVIS fee again and you will lose any time that you have accrued toward qualification for training (OPT) or employment .

You must have the new Form I-20 showing that you are entering on a new SEVIS ID number.

You should be aware that the CBP inspecting officer will determine whether or not to admit you to the United States with the new Form I-20. If you did not comply with the terms of your status during a prior stay in the United States, the CBP officer may decide that you are not eligible to reenter.

Can I reenter during the 60-day period after finishing my program or OPT?

No. The 60-day “grace” period is only to prepare to leave the country.

Can I reenter if my request for OPT is pending?

Yes, but traveling during this time should be undertaken with caution. USCIS may send you a request for evidence while you are away, however, so you would want to make sure you have provided a correct U.S. address both to your DSO and on the application and would be able to send in requested documents. Also, if USCIS approves your OPT application, you will be expected to have your EAD in hand to re-enter the United States. Like a request for further information, USCIS can only send the EAD to your U.S. address.

Can I reenter if I left while on OPT?

If USCIS has approved your OPT you will be expected to have your EAD in hand to re-enter the United States, in addition to your Form I-20, valid passport and visa, and a letter of employment if you have one. If you exceed the limits on unemployment while outside the United States, you will not be eligible to re-enter the United States in F-1 status.

Are there any other requirements for travel outside the United States?

The questions above outline the general requirements for reentry for F-1 students. However, because individual circumstances vary, consult your DSO, embassy, or legal advisor before traveling. Planning for your trip early ensures that you have enough time to get all of your travel documents in order.

If you are not returning to your home country, you should check the requirements of the country you are visiting. Some countries require a visa. You may also need a transit visa for countries where you are making a connecting flight. Be sure to check before you travel. Most countries have immigration websites that provide visa information. If you have additional questions, please contact SEVP at [email protected] or call us at 703-603-3400.

Renewing Your F-1 Student Visa

Can i stay in the united states if my student visa has expired.

Yes, as long as you are maintaining your status, you may legally remain in the United States with an expired F-1 or M-1 visa.

Can I renew my student visa while in the United States?

No. For more information about visa applications, visit the Department of State (DoS) website .

Can I renew my visa while outside the United States in a country other than my home country?

Yes, but the Department of State recommends that you apply for a visa in your home country. For more information about visa applications, visit the DoS website.

Before you travel to a country other than yours to renew your visa, contact the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in that country.

If you exit the United States and apply for a visa, you cannot return to the United States until DoS issues you a new visa. This could require a lengthy stay. If DoS denies your visa application, you will not be able to return to the United States as a student.

Can I go to Canada or Mexico and apply for a new visa?

In some cases, you can. Contact the individual U.S. Embassy or Consulate in Canada or Mexico. However, you cannot return to the United States until DoS issues you a new visa. If DoS denies your visa application, you will not be able to return to the United States as a student. For more information about visa applications, visit the DoS website . You can also visit travel.state.gov , for more information on how to apply for a U.S. visa in Canada and Mexico.

Applying for a new visa is not the same as automatic visa revalidation. You cannot apply for a new visa and take advantage of automatic visa revalidation at the same time.

What is automatic visa revalidation?

Automatic visa revalidation allows most F-1 students to take a trip of less than 30 days to countries contiguous to the United States and reenter on an expired visa provided you have proper documentation and have not applied for a new visa during the visit. This process revalidates your visa (making it eligible for the single trip), but does not renew it.

Re-entry for F-2 Non-immigrants

What documents do the dependants (accompanying spouse and minor children) of a continuing f-1 or m-1 student need for readmission to the us....

What documents do the dependants (accompanying spouse and minor children) of a continuing F-1 or M-1 student need for readmission to the United States after travelling abroad?

If you are the dependent of a continuing F-1 or M-1 student, previously admitted into the United States in F-2 or M-2 status, traveled outside the United States, and are now seeking readmission, you need to have the following:

• A current Form I-20 in your name that certifies your admissibility, (i.e. DSO signature on page 3 approving travel (Each dependent must have an individual Form I-20)
• A valid visa unless you are from Canada or Bermuda
• The primary (F-1 or M-1) must be in active student status - check with DSO before traveling to verify the primary's status
• Form I-94 Arrival/Departure Record

Do dependents have to travel with the primary?

No. However, your primary must be maintaining status. Consult the DSO from your primary’s school to ensure your primary is in status before traveling. You will need a valid passport. See Re-entry for F-1 Non-immigrants Travelling Outside the United States for Five Months or Fewer above

If your primary stays in the United States and has a request for optional practical training (OPT) pending or approved, you will need additional documentation. Make a copy of the primary’s Form I-20 with the page 2 annotations and/or employment authorization document (EAD) and be prepared to present it at the port of entry.

If the primary travels, can dependents remain in the United States?

Dependents may stay in the United States without the primary if the primary:

• Is in valid status
• Will return after a temporary absence using the same SEVIS ID number

What if I do not have a valid passport?

See the related questions in the F-1 section or M-1 section.

What if my visa expired?

If you are not traveling with the primary visa holder and your primary has a request for optional practical training (OPT) approved or pending, you will need additional documentation. Make a copy of the primary’s Form I-20 or EAD and be prepared to present it at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate and the port of entry.

Are there any other requirements for dependents to travel outside the United States?

The questions above outline the general reentry requirements for dependents. If you have questions, consult with the DSO at your primary’s school or seek advice from your embassy or legal advisor. However, if you are not returning to your country of citizenship, you should check the requirements of the country you are visiting. Some countries will require a visa. You may also need a visa for countries where you are making a connecting flight. Be sure to check before you travel.

Travel Re-entry: M Visa

Re-entry for m-1 nonimmigrants traveling outside the united states for five months or fewer.

This section of the FAQ applies to continuing M-1 students who travel outside the United States for five months or less.

An M-1 student should consult the designated school official (DSO) before traveling. Your DSO generally works in the international student office. You must have a current Form I-20, “Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status,” endorsed for travel, and your DSO must be able to verify that your SEVIS record is accurate and up-to-date.

What are the basic requirements for an M-1 student to re-enter the United States after traveling abroad on pleasure or personal business?

• A Form I-20, endorsed for travel and signed by your DSO (talk to your DSO before you travel)
• A current passport valid for at least six months after the date of your re-entry or, if you are from one of the countries listed below, a passport that is current through the date of entry
• A valid, current visa (unless you are a citizen of Canada or Bermuda or you traveled to a contiguous country for less than thirty days)
• Be sure that you are able to return before your current program end date

Bringing your most recent Form I-94, “Arrival/Departure Record,” will facilitate your re-entry through a land port of entry.

If you are from a visa exempt country, you do not need a visa to re-enter the United States.

You must renew your passport before you re-enter the United States. Usually, to enter the United States, you must have a passport that is valid for at least six months after the date you enter or re-enter.

However, some countries have an agreement with the United States that allows you to enter on a current passport up to the actual date of expiration. Try to keep your passport current at all times. You need to know your country’s rules for renewing passports as well as the amount of time it will take.

Many countries will allow you to renew your passport while in the United States. The other alternative is to renew your passport when you return home for a visit.

You may want to delay leaving the United States until you have renewed your passport. You must have a valid passport to re-enter the United States. If your expired passport has a valid visa, you may still use it if you kept the old passport. Present both the old and new passports when you re-enter the United States.

The countries that have an agreement with the United States allowing entry with a passport until the date of expiration are the following:

• Hong Kong (identity certificates and passports)

What if my M-1 student visa has expired?

You must maintain your student status to stay in the United States on an expired M-1 visa. If you are returning home or traveling to a country where automatic revalidation does not apply, you must have a valid visa to return to the United States.

The Department of State recommends that you apply for a visa in your home country. For more information about visa applications, visit the Department of State website .

You can apply in a third country for a visa, but you cannot return to the United States until the Department of State issues you a new visa. In some cases, this could take several weeks if a background check is necessary. If the Department of State denies your visa, you cannot return to the United States.

If you must re-apply for a visa, remember to bring the following items with you:

• A Form I-20, endorsed for travel and signed by your DSO and your original Form I-20 (talk to your DSO before you travel)
• Original evidence showing proof of necessary funds to pay for tuition and living expenses
• Evidence showing your intent to return to your home country upon program completion with evidence of compelling social and economic ties to your home country
• For more information, please visit the Department of State’s website.

As a continuing student, must I pay the I-901 SEVIS fee if I travel outside the United States?

I want to travel to canada or mexico. may i return to the united states if i have an expired visa.

Yes, in most cases CBP will allow re-entry to the United States. Usually, you can revalidate an expired visa automatically if you meet all of the following criteria:

• Returning from a visit of fewer than thirty days to Canada or Mexico
• Have a valid Form I-20
• Have a valid unexpired Form I-94

This process is known as automatic visa revalidation.

However, if you meet any one of following criteria, 8 CFR 214.1(b)(3) mandates that you cannot automatically revalidate your visa:

• You applied for a new visa, and DoS has not issued it.
• You applied for a new visa, and DoS denied it.
• You have a terminated SEVIS record indicating that you are out of status.
• You have been out the United States for more than thirty days.
• North Korea

I want to travel to one of the islands adjacent to the United States. May I return if my visa has expired?

Yes. Regulations state that an M student or dependent can be readmitted under automatic visa revalidation if they are:

• Admissible;
• Seeking readmission after an absence not exceeding thirty days solely in contiguous territory;
• In possession of a valid passport; and
• Presenting a Form I-94, “Arrival-Departure Record,” from the previous admission or stay and a Form I-20, ‘Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status,” signed for travel by the DSO.

The definition of adjacent islands is in INA, Section 101(b)(5) :

Do I need a valid visa to visit Puerto Rico or the U.S. Virgin Islands?

No. You will need a valid Form I-20 and a valid, unexpired Form I-94. Be sure that you do not have a terminated SEVIS record indicating that you are out of status.

Your DSO can tell you your SEVIS record status and give you appropriate travel-related advice.

I want to travel outside the United States, but my SEVIS record is in Terminated status. May I return if I travel?

If you need to travel on a terminated record, you must talk to your DSO. A DSO who has requested a data fix will put your Help Desk ticket number on your Form I-20 and report your pending travel to SEVP.

There is no guarantee that CBP will readmit you to the United States if you travel on a terminated record. In most cases, CBP will allow you to re-enter the United States if you are otherwise admissible and your DSO has properly annotated your Form I-20. It is likely, however, that CBP will send you to secondary inspection while they determine whether you are eligible to return to the United States.

May I travel outside the U.S. if I have a Form I-539, “Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status,” request for extension of stay...

May I travel outside the U.S. if I have a Form I-539, “Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status,” request for extension of stay application pending?

Yes, you may travel. However, you must return at least 15 days prior to your current program end date.

May I re-establish M-1 student status by obtaining a new initial Form I-20 and re-entering the United States?

Yes, you may re-establish M-1 student status. However, in SEVIS, you will be an Initial student. You must pay the I-901 SEVIS fee, and you will lose any time that you have built up towards qualification for practical training.

May I re-enter the United States during the 30-day grace period after finishing my program or after finishing practical training?

The 30-day grace period is intended to prepare for departure. CBP would make the decision whether or not to re-admit you during your grace period.

May I re-enter the United States if I have a pending request for practical training?

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services may consider your practical training request abandoned if you depart the United States while it is pending. The same is true if you needed to file for an M-1 extension in addition to the practical training application. CBP would make the decision whether or not to re-admit you in this situation, depending upon the timing and whether you are still in M-1 status.

May I re-enter the United States if I left while on OPT?

If USCIS and your DSO have approved your OPT but you depart before you get a job, your OPT ends and you cannot re-enter. If you have a job, however, you may travel and re-enter to resume work.

Previous questions give the general requirements for M-1 student re-entry. However, because individual circumstances vary, consult your DSO, embassy officials or legal advisor before traveling. Discussing your travel plans as soon as possible will allow time to ensure you have proper documentation for travel.

Some countries will require a visa. If you are not returning to your home country, check the requirements of the destination country. You may also need an in-transit visa for countries where you are making a connecting flight. Be sure to check before you travel. Most countries have immigration websites that provide visa information.

Renewing Your M-1 Student Visa

Yes, as long as you are student in good standing and have not violated your status, you may legally remain in the United States with an expired M-1 visa. As an M-1, you may stay for up to one year from the date you arrive in the United States, also according to your Form I-20 in SEVIS, but may apply for extensions.

No. For more information about visa applications visit the Department of State website at http://travel.state.gov/ . If you need to stay longer than one year to complete your program of study, you may work with your school official to apply for an extension with USCIS.

Yes, but the Department of State recommends that you apply for a visa in your home country. For more information about visa applications visit the Department of State website at http://travel.state.gov/ .

Before you travel to a country other than yours to renew your visa, contact the U.S. embassy or consulate.

If you exit the United States and apply for a visa, you cannot return to the United States until the visa is issued. This could require a lengthy stay. If the visa is denied, you will not be able to return to the United States as a student.

In some cases, you can. Contact the individual U.S. embassy or consulate in Canada or Mexico. However, you cannot return to the United States until your visa is issued. If the visa is denied, you will not be able to return to the United States as a student. For more information about visa applications visit the Department of State website at http://travel.state.gov/ .

Automatic visa revalidation allows most M-1 students to take a trip of less than thirty days to countries contiguous to the United States and reenter on an expired visa provided you have proper documentation and have not applied for a new visa during the visit. This process revalidates your visa (making it eligible for the single trip), but does not renew it.

Re-entry for M-2 Nonimmigrants

What documents do the spouse and minor children of a continuing m-1 student need to reenter to the united states after traveling abroad.

If you are the spouse or minor child of a continuing student you need to have the following:

• A current SEVIS Form I-20 in your name (and one for each M-2 traveling)
• A valid passport
• A valid visa unless you are from a visa exempt country or, in some cases, you are traveling to a contiguous country
• The primary (M-1) must be in active student status

Do M-2 nonimmigrants have to travel with the primary (M-1)?

No. However, you must be able to show that your primary (M-1) has been admitted and has maintained student status. We recommend that you consult with the DSO from your primary’s school to ensure the M-1 is in status before traveling. You will need the documents, which are listed in the “What documents do the spouse and minor children of a continuing M-1 student need to reenter to the United States after traveling abroad?” FAQ.

If your primary has practical training approved, you will need additional documentation. Make a copy of the primary’s Form I-20 with the page 2 annotations and/or EAD (employment authorization document) and be prepared to present it at the consulate and POE.

If the primary (M-1) travels, can the M-2 nonimmigrant family members remain in the United States?

M-2 nonimmigrant family members may stay in the United States without the primary if the primary:

See What if I have an expired passport or one that will expire in less than six months? in the M-1 section.

What if my M-2 visa expired?

See What if my M-1 student visa has expired? in the M-1 section.

I wish to travel to Canada, Mexico, or one of the islands (other than Cuba) adjacent to the United States. Can I return if my M-2 visa is expired?

See I want to travel to Canada or Mexico. May I return to the United States if I have an expired visa? in the M-1 section

Can I re-enter if my primary has practical training pending?

It is best to travel after practical training is approved.

Are there any other requirements for M-2 nonimmigrants to travel outside the United States?

The questions above outline the general reentry requirements for M-2 nonimmigrants. If you have questions, consult with the DSO at your primary’s school or seek advise from your embassy or legal advisor. However, if you are not returning to your country of citizenship, you should check the requirements of the country you are visiting. Some countries will require a visa. You may also need a visa for countries where you are making a connecting flight. Be sure to check before you travel.

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• USCIS Service Centers

Travel Outside US, re-enter on approved EAD but without EAD card

By Golden Lotus January 3, 2016 in USCIS Service Centers

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6 posts in this topic

Recommended posts, golden lotus   1.

I figured out that quite few people have the same problem "re-enter on approved EAD but without the actual card" as I did. I used to do tons of research on this topic prior to my travel to seek a definte answer, but could not find a single one, that's why I decided to post my full experience from the day I applied for OPT, throughout the whole application process, traveling outside US, re-entering, and getting detained at US border.

On September 21, 2015 (the day OPT application opened), I attended an OPT workshop (requirement at my school). On September 25: my international advisor did an online application, checked all my supporting documents, then I went to UPS store to mail these documents to USCIS Dallas Office. (The advisor told me to put school international office address as the mailing address for safety).

During this visit, I also asked the advisor whether it was safe for me to travel outside US. They said that it should be okay - The office should receive my card in December and mail it to my overseas address right away before my employment start date (I already have a job offer lined up)

On September 30. I received a receipt from USCIS that they have received my application on Sept 25.

On December 7, I took flight to my home country (partly cuz the advisor's assurance, partly due to family circumstance).

I waited and waited until Dec 18 and my USCIS case status had not changed at all (still just received). So I called the international office, the advisor told me that it was really unfortunate that my case had not been processed since the 90 days deadline came pretty close. And that they must receive my card before December 23 in order to mail the card to me in time before my flight . Otherwise, We would have to wait til Jan 4 (the office closed for holiday from Dec 24 to Jan 3) for them to mail the card to me - and Jan 8-10 for the card to be in my hands (but that meant I would be late for my employment start date, and miss my flight on Jan 2). I immediately called USCIS to request a change in mailing address to my friend's apartment so that if it arrives during the break, my friend can mail it to me. But USCIS representative told me that request like this would take 15 - 30 days to process. Anyways, I took the risk and ask for a change.

I spent the next few days hoping that the card would be processed ASAP and arrive at the office before Dec 23, but No, that wasnt the case. They waited until Dec 24 to approve my application. And even though they said that they have mailed the card, I havent received the actual card yet, the only thing I received was a notice of approval in my friend's mailbox on Dec 29. He took the notice to Fedex in order to mail it to me but the FedEx people said the earliest date it could arrive at my address is Jan 5. So Instead of mailing it out, he just scanned the document and emailed a pdf version of the approval to me.

At this point, I really didnt know what to do. People advised me to stay at home and waited until the actual card to arrive, but I dont want to waste money paid for Jan 2 flight and certainly do not want to pay for a new ticket. Moreover, I need to arrive early to do some moving and preparation ahead of my start date... So I decided take the risk of being denied at port of entry.

On Jan 2, I took the flight to Houston TX. When I arrived, I did not pass the first border check, and was detained into a small room with some other people. Waited in the room for about 15-20 mins (oh and Please if you're in this situation, dont use phone or any electronic device - otherwise you will just upset the officers), then an officer called my name and asked me a series of questions relating to my study, my work, my reason for travels, why didnt you renew your visa (visa expires on Jan 11). After like 20 minutes or so, he stamped my passport and I was allowed to enter the US. Here are the documents I used in order from top to bottom: (1) passport, (2) I-20, (3) employment contract, (4) email from employer that stated employment start date, (5) USCIS receipt of application acceptance email, (6) a scanned copy of USCIS approval notice, and (7) Latest I-94.

My answers to some questions asked by officers:

1. When your program ended? - graduation date

2. When will you start working? - starting date

3. For which firm? - the name of your employers, a brief description of the compang, your position, and its relation with your prior study

4. When did you last leave the US? Tell them the truth, and reasons for leaving (my case, mom got into a motor accident).

5. Can you provide me with original copy of approval notice? I can't cuz friend could not mail it on time.

6. Why dont you have EAD card? Just tell them your situation

7. What do you plan to do after OPT over? I told them that my firm is gonna sponsor me for H1B visa.

8. Do you bring any food or money... With you? I don't bring any food or liquid with me, but I do have with me 3500 in cash, and some other valuables. Total value should be around $5000

9. Why didnt yoh renew your F-1 visa since your visa was gonna expire soon (on Jan 11)? - My advisor advised me not to renew my visa while at my home country if the visa duration still covers my travel date. If I did apply for a renewal, my current visa could be cancelled and I could fail to obtain a new one without an actual EAD card. So to be safe, she told me to just use this current visa for now. I can renew it in my later trip back home or simply wait for H1-B visa issued.

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• 1 year later...

Jessica2017   0

Hi, I am in the same situation, I am going back home in few days and my OPT application has not been approved yet. It is very likely it will approve before I get back in Feb, I do not want to risk the overseas mailing during Spring Festival, so I just wondered how important EAD is for re-entry.

I have valid VISA, offer letter, receipt.

Thank you for sharing your experience.

23 hours ago, Jessica2017 said: Hi, I am in the same situation, I am going back home in few days and my OPT application has not been approved yet. It is very likely it will approve before I get back in Feb, I do not want to risk the overseas mailing during Spring Festival, so I just wondered how important EAD is for re-entry. I have valid VISA, offer letter, receipt. Thank you for sharing your experience.    

Hello Jessica,

It is very important. When did you apply for your OPT? If you only recently applied for OPT (two months or less), I don't think that it is wise to travel outside the US. I applied to OPT as soon as application window opened, and had to wait for more than 90 days to receive the approval notice (not the EAD card). I was lucky that right before my flight, my friend checked my mailbox in US and found the approval notice, took a copy and sent it to me.

Anyhow, I don't think that valid visa, offer letter or receipt matter. What matters is whether your OPT has been approved. If you can show them that your OPT has been approved (screenshot of approval notice on Immigration website), or a soft copy of OPT approval notice), then it should be fine. However, let say, if at the time of your arrival in the US, your OPT is still not approved, I am pretty sure that you can't get in. 

Waiting9999   0

Thanks for sharing. I decided to share my story too because I think that the whole Opt thing is blown out of proportion.

I traveled while waiting for the EAD and I also had a job offer. While outside the US, the international advisor kept stating that it is better to wait until approved before entering the US. I didn't trust his knowledge because of past experience with him. I was approved fir the EAD and received notice that it was mailed to the ISS office while I was outside the US.

I decided to check the rules for re-entry on USCIS WEBSITE. I found out as expected that they don't require a job offer nor the EAD card for re-entry. Rather the ISS office scares students off because of all other reasons that has little to do with reality.

I have received the card on the same day and hour I arrived the airport in the US. However, at the entry I was not asked any questions, nor I was asked to present any documents whatsoever other than the passport and I-20. The whole process and stamping took maybe 20 seconds. My point is don't rely on the advisors a small a source of knowledge, you can do your own diligence. Please note that I've completed my PhD degree and had a faculty job offer. At the airport they didn't even ask me about any of that. Good luck.

pmosu   0

On 2/6/2018 at 2:03 AM, Waiting9999 said: Thanks for sharing. I decided to share my story too because I think that the whole Opt thing is blown out of proportion. I traveled while waiting for the EAD and I also had a job offer. While outside the US, the international advisor kept stating that it is better to wait until approved before entering the US. I didn't trust his knowledge because of past experience with him. I was approved fir the EAD and received notice that it was mailed to the ISS office while I was outside the US.   I decided to check the rules for re-entry on USCIS WEBSITE. I found out as expected that they don't require a job offer nor the EAD card for re-entry. Rather the ISS office scares students off because of all other reasons that has little to do with reality. I have received the card on the same day and hour I arrived the airport in the US. However, at the entry I was not asked any questions, nor I was asked to present any documents whatsoever other than the passport and I-20. The whole process and stamping took maybe 20 seconds. My point is don't rely on the advisors a small a source of knowledge, you can do your own diligence. Please note that I've completed my PhD degree and had a faculty job offer. At the airport they didn't even ask me about any of that. Good luck.  

Hey, I tried to find check USCIS but couldn't find the information regarding the re-entry.

It would be really helpful if you could post the link to it.

Thanks a lot.

• 2 weeks later...

TBoneTX   43,022

Old thread is now closed to further comment.

06-04-2007 = TSC stamps postal return-receipt for I-129f.

06-11-2007 = NOA1 date (unknown to me).

07-20-2007 = Phoned Immigration Officer; got WAC#; where's NOA1?

09-25-2007 = Touch (first-ever).

09-28-2007 = NOA1, 23 days after their 45-day promise to send it (grrrr).

10-20 & 11-14-2007 = Phoned ImmOffs; "still pending."

12-11-2007 = 180 days; file is "between workstations, may be early Jan."; touches 12/11 & 12/12.

12-18-2007 = Call; file is with Division 9 ofcr. (bckgrnd check); e-prompt to shake it; touch.

12-19-2007 = NOA2 by e-mail & web, dated 12-18-07 (187 days; 201 per VJ); in mail 12/24/07.

01-09-2008 = File from USCIS to NVC , 1-4-08; NVC creates file, 1/15/08; to consulate 1/16/08.

01-23-2008 = Consulate gets file; outdated Packet 4 mailed to fiancee 1/27/08; rec'd 3/3/08.

04-29-2008 = Fiancee's 4-min. consular interview, 8:30 a.m.; much evidence brought but not allowed to be presented (consul: "More proof! Second interview! Bring your fiance!").

05-05-2008 = Infuriating $12 call to non-English-speaking consulate appointment-setter.

05-06-2008 = Better $12 call to English-speaker; "joint" interview date 6/30/08 (my selection).

06-30-2008 = Stokes Interrogations w/Ecuadorian (not USC); "wait 2 weeks; we'll mail her."

07-2008 = Daily calls to DOS: "currently processing"; 8/05 = Phoned consulate, got Section Chief; wrote him.

08-07-08 = E-mail from consulate, promising to issue visa "as soon as we get her passport" (on 8/12, per DHL).

08-27-08 = Phoned consulate (they "couldn't find" our file); visa DHL'd 8/28; in hand 9/1; through POE on 10/9 with NO hassles(!).

• 6 yr TBoneTX locked this topic

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OPT Frequently Asked Questions

Have a question about OPT? You're not alone. Read on for answers to our most frequently asked questions.

Your OPT Application

You can start applying for your OPT 90 days before either your proposed employment start date if you are applying for pre-completion OPT or 90 days before your program completion date if you are applying for post-completion OPT . You will first need to apply for your OPT I-20 with OGS which can take up to two weeks. OGS handles all NYU OPT applications and works as fast as possible to issue OPT I-20s. If your I-20 is ready before the 2 weeks processing time, we will let you know. Once you apply for the EAD with the US government it can take approximately up to 3.5 months time to process your application. Check the US government processing times . [You must select "I-765" for form type. For Field Office or Service Center, most of our students' applications go to the Potomac Service Center.]

For December graduates, that means you should apply by mid September; for May graduates, by mid February. By applying early, you can avoid the risks that come from an OPT request being denied after the grace period has ended. In addition, delaying your application will not allow you to stay longer in the US. Students can choose to file for premium processing and follow the instructions on the USCIS website.

Yes, you can be outside of the US while your OPT application is pending with USCIS, but there are always risks associated with this. First, we recommend that you have someone you know and trust monitor your mail in the US if you choose to travel. If you receive any correspondence from USCIS while your OPT application is pending, you need to know what they have sent you. On occasion students receive requests for further information/evidence (also known as an “RFE”) from USCIS regarding their application. You must reply to USCIS within a specified period of time if you receive an RFE. If you do not reply to them by their specified deadline, your application would then be at risk for being denied. If the denial occurs when you are outside of the US, then you would be unable to reapply for OPT until and unless you enter back into the US in F-1 status.

Additionally, if you are outside of the US after you complete your program but do not have all of the required travel documents for while you are on OPT , you may face difficulties in reentering the US. Because international travel and restrictions are unpredictable during this time, even if you plan to travel back to the US before your program ends, you may not be able to do so.

Current processing times are always posted by USCIS. You can check what the current processing time is by clicking on the link, selecting "I-765 for Employment Authorization" for the Form field, "Based on a request by a qualified F-1 academic student [(c)(3)]" for the Form Category field, and "Potomac Service Center" for the Field Office or Service Center field.

It is best to plan ahead and apply as early as possible because the US government rarely expedites applications (see USCIS expedite criteria ) unless you pay an extra cost for premium processing.

Please note, there is a significant fee for premium processing (in addition to the OPT application fee). Full details on how to request premium (or expedited) processing is on the USCIS webpage for the Form I-907 , the form needed to request premium processing.

It's helpful to cross reference the current processing times tool linked above if and when you apply for OPT to determine whether the extra premium processing fee is worth the significant added expense.

It is important to carefully select the dates you request for your OPT because you will not be able to change these dates after you apply. If you are applying for pre-completion OPT , you should select the date that is your desired start date of employment. Keep in mind that it can take up to 3 months before you will be able to start working. If you are applying for post-completion OPT , your start date should be one to sixty days after your completion date.

For example, if your completion date is May 20, your OPT can start anywhere from May 21 at the earliest and July 18 at the latest. However, if you think it will be challenging to find a job, you should select a later start date to ensure you do not waste your OPT time. Keep in mind if you find a job before this date, you won’t be able to start working until you have the EAD card in hand and the OPT period has begun. 

You must be physically present in the US at the time you submit your OPT application. 

Contact us or come to our advising hours immediately, along with your rejection/denial notice, so that we may help you determine whether you can resubmit your application, or have your application reconsidered.

If you will be moving but haven’t received your card yet you will most likely need to change your address with the US government. If you have a trusted roommate or family member at the address listed on your OPT application and that person will be able to check your mail and will contact you immediately if anything arrives, ensure that you can still receive mail there and if so keep that address. However, if not, you should call the National Service Customer line to ask for your address to be updated. You can find this phone number on your receipt notice. They will give you details on how to change your address.

You may also directly change your address online via the USCIS Case Status Landing page. Once there, click "Change of Address" and follow the instructions. If you are using someone else's address, be sure to fill out the "In Care of for Mailing, C/O" section.

Additionally, you may sign up for USPS Informed Delivery to monitor the delivery of your mail. This is another mechanism to track any expected deliveries from USCIS.

 If you receive an EAD (Employment Authorization Document) from USCIS that has an error on it, you must correct the error to avoid having any problems in the future. To correct the error, follow these instructions .

While Your OPT Application is Pending

The US government has specific criteria for expediting an application .

If your application has been pending for more than 5 months from the day the US government received your application, we suggest you take the following actions:

• Check the status of your application on the USCIS website .
• Let USCIS know that your case is outside normal processing time by submitting a case inquiry with them.
• You can also call the USCIS Customer Service Center for the status of your application at 1-800-375-5283. You will have to submit your receipt number to them when you call.

If you have taken all of the above actions, 15 days after submitting a case inquiry, please email [email protected]. When you email us, be sure to tell us when you last checked the USCIS website for your case status, when you submitted a case inquiry with USCIS, and when you called their Customer Service Center. Please also include a copy of your receipt notice from the USCIS on your OPT application.

Please note, the soonest we can check with USCIS on your behalf is 15 days after the date you last contacted them. We can only request a courtesy inquiry and there is no guarantee that they will consider our request. That said, we have earlier seen USCIS reduce processing time for some applications when we have submitted courtesy inquiries.

In addition, full details on how to request premium (or expedited) processing is on the USCIS webpage for the Form I-907 , the form needed to request premium processing. It's helpful to cross reference the current processing times tool linked above if and when you apply for OPT to determine whether the extra premium processing fee is worth the significant added expense.

You will need to confirm with the USCIS that they have your correct mailing address in their system. To do this, use either the USCIS inquiry form or call their National Customer line . You will need to know your receipt number when making an inquiry.

Create an inquiry with USCIS .

If you are having issues with your EAD being lost or misdirected, consider completing this USCIS case assistance request form . If you would like to provide consent for an advisor at OGS to speak with USCIS about your issues, please upload a signed statement indicating your consent for OGS staff to speak with USCIS.

If the card is lost, and USCIS cannot simply resend it to you, then you will have to apply for a replacement card. Review the process to replace a lost or stolen EAD if you need to apply to replace your card.

As soon as you receive the letter from USCIS, come to the OGS during our in person advising hours . We will review the reason for the letter together and help you prepare the requested documents.

Go to the US government's website to check your USCIS CASE Status Online: https://egov.uscis.gov/casestatus/landing.do . Once there, click "Change of Address" and follow the instructions. If you are using someone else's address, be sure to fill out "In Care of for Mailing, C/O" section.

Travel and OPT

If you want to travel while your OPT application is pending and you haven’t yet reached your completion date, then you are fine to travel. In other words, if you still haven’t finished your degree at NYU, as indicated on your I-20, then travel is the same as it has been; you’ll need to bring with you the same documents we normally recommend you have with you when you travel. For a full list of documents needed for reentry into the US, please review the items on the Travel and Visitors page.

If, however, you want to travel after the end date as listed on page 1 of your I-20 , you need to have your OPT approved and have the EAD card with you, along with proof that you have a job, in addition to your passport, valid F-1 visa and I-20 signed for travel in order to successfully get back into the US. We don’t recommend you travel outside of the US after you finish your degree unless you have your OPT approved, the EAD card, and a job offer letter. For a full list of documents needed for travel after your program end date elapses, please review the items on the Documents to Carry page. If you will need to renew the F-1 visa in your passport while you travel, please review the information on how to renew your visa .

If you are on pre-completion OPT, review our travel instructions for current students .

If you are on post-completion or STEM OPT, review our travel instructions for alumni .

If you want to travel while your STEM OPT application is pending and you will return from the US before your post-completion OPT end date, then you are fine to travel as long as you have all alumni travel documents .  

If, however, you want to travel after the end date of your post-completion OPT EAD, you need to have your STEM OPT approved and have the STEM EAD card with you, along with proof that you have a job, in addition to your passport, valid F-1 visa and I-20 signed for travel in order to successfully get back into the US. We don’t recommend you travel outside of the US after you finish your post-completion OPT unless you have your STEM OPT approved, the EAD card, and a job offer letter. If you will need to renew the F-1 visa in your passport while you travel, please review our visa renewal information .

Working on OPT

Once your OPT begins--see the start date as listed on your EAD, the card you’ll receive once your OPT is approved--you have a total of 90 days of unemployment during your OPT. If you cannot find a job within 90 days of the start of your OPT, then you must make plans to depart the US immediately or change to some other status in the US. Keep in mind that the 90 days of unemployment is for the entire OPT period. This means that if you use up 60 days of unemployment time looking for a job in the beginning, you only have 30 days of unemployment time for the remainder of your OPT period. You can also review the government's policy guidance on OPT .

Your job should be directly related to your NYU major. In other words, you must be able to make a strong connection between your job and what you studied at NYU. If you can’t make that connection, then you should not be working at that job for OPT.

Often a job posting or advertisement will include the kinds of degrees the employer believes will be well suited to the advertised position. Having a copy of that job ad is helpful for your documentation that the job is connected to what you studied. You can also get a letter from your job supervisor indicating how your degree is essential for your position. It helps to keep copies of these documents so that if the US government ever wanted to see proof of how you were keeping your status legal while on OPT, you would have easy and ready proof to provide to them. You can also review the government's policy guidance on OPT .

Please also see our information on post-completion OPT employment types .

Remember, your OPT is not linked to one employer; this means that you can have more than one employer while on OPT as long as every job you have is directly related to your major. You can also review the government's policy guidance on OPT .

There is no limit as to how many hours you can work. You can also review the government's policy guidance on OPT .

You can work at NYU while on OPT as long as your job is considered professional level and is not a student job. If you’re not sure if your NYU job is considered professional level, ask your hiring department. 

Students participating in OPT may work remotely as long as they continue to comply with F-1 requirements on OPT.

Get all the needed details on what, when, and how to report on our reporting updates while on OPT page .

If your card was lost or stolen while you are on OPT, we advise that you apply for a replacement card. Review the process to replace a lost or stolen EAD .

USCIS has not provided any guidance on this till now. They could potentially interpret any days the employee is on furlough as contributing to days of unemployment, therefore we believe it safest for students to try to secure some other volunteer work consisting of at least 20 hours per week in their field of study to prevent the accrual of further potential unemployment days. 

US government regulations state that optional practical training employment is automatically terminated when a student transfers to another school or begins study at another educational level. Only recreational or avocational classes are permissible while on OPT.

Options When You Finish Your OPT

As long as you worked and did not accrue more than 90 days of unemployment while on OPT, you can stay in the US for up to 60 days after completing your OPT.

Review your options for extending OPT.

Follow our transfer out of NYU procedure .

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Employment Authorization Document (EAD) & Travel Documents

Work permits & travel documents.

Are you planning to travel internationally for work or personal reasons? For a smooth, comfortable journey, it's essential to have the relevant documentation. The purpose of this guide is to provide answers to commonly asked questions and concerns regarding work permits, Employment Authorization Documents (EAD), and other travel documents. No matter if you are traveling for business or pleasure, this guide will provide you with the information you need to navigate the world of international travel effectively.

Employment Authorization Document (EAD): Everything You Need to Know

People seeking temporary work authorization in the United States are required to obtain an Employment Authorization Document (EAD). U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) issues these documents in order to allow eligible individuals, such as foreign nationals, to legally work in the country. The document serves as evidence that the holder is eligible to work and is required by employers in order to verify a person's eligibility for employment.

Although an EAD permits temporary work authorization within the United States, it does not automatically grant permission to travel abroad. In order to travel internationally, an individual with an EAD must also possess a valid passport from their home country as well as any necessary visas or travel documents for the country in which they wish to travel. As a standalone document, the EAD does not meet the requirements for international travel and should not be considered as a substitute for a passport or visa.

Traveling Internationally with a Work Permit:

Traveling internationally with a work permit depends on several factors, including your immigration status and the type of work permit you possess. The rules and regulations regarding international travel for individuals on work permits differ from country to country. Work permit holders may be allowed to travel internationally without additional documentation in some countries, while others may require additional permits, visas, or clearances in order to enter or transit through their country. You should thoroughly research and comply with the travel restrictions and requirements set by your home country and the country you plan to visit.

Traveling with an EAD Card:

It is generally not permissible for individuals to travel abroad on an EAD card alone. Depending on your immigration status, you will need additional travel documents, such as a passport or a refugee travel document. You will be able to smoothly pass through immigration checkpoints if you present these documents as proof of your identity and purpose of travel.

Obtaining a Travel Document with an EAD:

A travel document that corresponds to your immigration status is required for international travel with an Employment Authorization Document (EAD). The appropriate travel document for individuals with refugee or asylum status is known as a refugee travel document. This document allows you to travel outside of the United States and return while maintaining your status as a refugee or asylee. You can obtain a refugee travel document by submitting an application to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS) along with the necessary supporting documentation.

It is recommended that you consult with an immigration attorney or consult the USCIS website for specific and up-to-date information regarding travel document requirements based on your immigration status.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Q: What is a Travel Document?

A: Obtaining a Travel Document allows non-citizens to return to the United States after temporary travel abroad. There are many grounds of inadmissibility that are not triggered until an individual leaves the United States. When returning to the United States, you will be required to present a Travel Document at the border.

Q:  Who needs an EAD to work in the U.S.?

A: As long as you are not a U.S. citizen, permanent resident, or in the U.S. on a valid nonimmigrant work visa, you cannot work without first obtaining an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) or "Work Permit". The consequences of working without authorization can negatively affect your immigration status and your ability to obtain future benefits. We can assist you in obtaining a work permit if you contact our experienced lawyers.

Q:  Am I eligible for an EAD?

A: A petition or application for an EAD must be pending or approved, and you must be eligible for one of the allotted categories. If you are interested in determining your eligibility, please contact us.

What is the difference between Travel Document categories?

a. Reentry Permit: For Permanent and Conditional Residents planning to travel frequently or for extended periods outside the U.S.

b. Refugee Travel Document: Required for refugees or asylees seeking to travel abroad temporarily and return to the U.S.

c. Advance Parole: Allows entry of a person for a specific reason without their being considered to be "admitted."

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Temporary Rule Increasing Automatic Extension Period of Employment Authorization and/or EADs for Certain Individuals

On April 8, 2024, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) published a second temporary final rule ( 89 FR 24628 ) temporarily increasing the automatic extension period for employment authorization and/or Employment Authorization Documents (EAD, Form I-766) to up to 540 days. This temporary increase is available to  certain individuals who timely filed Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization, renewal applications on or before Sept. 30, 2025. Previously, the EAD auto-extension was only up to 180 days for EAD renewal applications received by USCIS on or after Oct. 27, 2023. 

Agencies should accept EADs, including those that appear expired, in the following circumstances:

• The EAD “Card Expires” date has passed and states an  eligible category ; and
• The benefit applicant also presents a Form I-797C, Notice of Action, receipt notice for a renewal Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization, that states the same eligibility category as the category on the front of the EAD, except:
• The EAD category codes do not need to match for Temporary Protected Status applicants if one is A12 (TPS approved) and the other is C19 (TPS pending).
• The EAD category codes C26, A17, and A18 for certain nonimmigrant dependent spouses require an unexpired Form I-94 indicating H-4 (C26), E (A17) and L-2 (A18) nonimmigrant status be presented along with the Form I-797C. 

This temporary final rule also provides benefit applicants whose Form I-797C was issued on or after Oct. 27, 2023, and references the up to 180-day extension, an additional extension up to 360 days, for a total of up to 540 days past the “Card Expires” date of the current EAD, if their renewal application was still pending with USCIS as of Apr. 8, 2024 (when the second TFR was published).

SAVE Verification 

SAVE will generally verify employment authorization as part of initial verification, including automatically extended EAD validity periods. Additional manual verification may be required in limited instances, such as when the benefit applicant’s information does not match federal immigration records. If you need to verify whether this temporary final rule impacts a benefit applicant for whom SAVE previously provided a response, please submit a new SAVE verification request. 

The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services  Automatic EAD Extension Webpage  and this  USCIS News Alert provide additional information regarding this change.