Travel
Travelling abroad on a F1 visa
Always remember to visit the ISSI before you make any trip abroad and get your I-20 signed if more than 6 months have elapsed since you last travelled . Visit the ISSI website for details regarding necessary documents.
TRAVEL ADVISORY FOR F-1 STUDENTS ENGAGED IN POST-COMPLETION OPTIONAL PRACTICAL TRAINING (OPT)
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has issued a new interpretation of the regulations pertaining to travel of F-1 visa holders engaged in post-completion Optional Practical Training (OPT). Please read the information below carefully if you are an F-1 student planning to travel outside the U.S. while engaging in post-completion OPT. The International Student & Scholar Institute (ISSI) advises F-1 students on post-completion OPT to adhere to the following guidelines:
If your OPT is APPROVED:
* If your OPT application has been approved and you depart the U.S. before you obtain a job or a job offer, you will not be allowed to re-enter the U.S.
* If you receive your Employment Authorization Document (EAD) card and wish to travel before or during your approved OPT, be sure to carry proof of employment or a job offer letter along with your EAD card and other immigration documents. You need not have started your employment before you leave, provided you have already secured a job or a job offer.
If your OPT is PENDING and you must travel after you complete your program of study:
* It is essential that you contact the ISSI in a timely manner to receive instructions in order to ensure that you maintain proper non-immigrant visa status. Travel under this condition may present some risks.
Please keep in mind that these new regulations do not apply to pre-completion OPT. Also, it does not mean that you are out of status if you do not have a job offer at the time that your OPT is approved. It is assumed, however, that a student whose OPT has been approved and who remains in the U.S. will be diligent in his/her search for employment.
In addition, the ISSI recommends the following if you are planning to travel outside the U.S. during post-completion OPT:
* Be sure that your OPT card and F-1 visa stamp are valid beyond your planned re-entry date. If your F-1 visa has expired, you will need to apply for a new F-1 visa stamp while you are abroad. Be certain to consult with one of the ISSI advisors before you depart the U.S.
* Be sure that the signature from the ISSI on page 3 of your I-20 will be less than 6 months old when you re-enter the U.S.
* Ask your current or prospective employer to issue a letter stating that you are/will be working for that employer.
**It is crucial that you prepare the necessary documents for travel during post-completion OPT. Please contact the ISSI at 617-373-2310 in case you have questions/concerns regarding this new interpretation of the regulations.
206 Ell Hall
Northeastern University
Boston, MA 02115
Tel: 617.373.2310
Fax: 617.373.8788
Email: issi@neu.edu
Web page: www.issi.neu.edu