International Student Handbook

TRAVEL

Traveling outside of the U.S. requires special attention.

In order to re-enter the U.S. after a temporary absence such as a vacation, you must have the following documents:

A valid passport
A valid F-1 or J-1 visa in your passport
A valid I-20 or IAP-66, signed on the back by an your international student advisor for travel.
Copies of your financial support documents
College transcripts

If you are in F-1 status and your visa has expired, you may re-enter the U.S. without getting a new visa, if:

You are traveling only to "contiguous territory" (Canada, Mexico, and adjacent islands other than Cuba) during this brief absence, and
You have been absent for not more than 30 days, and
You present a valid I-94 and a valid (new or endorsed for travel) I-20 or IAP-66
You present a valid passport and the expired visa.

A person who entered the U.S. in another visa status and changed to F-1 or J-1 status may re-enter without obtaining a new visa by meeting the conditions above.

Before traveling abroad, always consult with an international student advisor. Failure to do so may jeopardize your re-entry to the U.S.

** If you are traveling out of the state of Rhode Island, you must advise the DSO of your destination and dates of travel via email, phone, or in person.