Category: Travel Advisory
ISSO Travel Advisory – Winter 2019/2020
Are you travelling outside the U.S. over Thanksgiving or Winter Intersession?
November is a great time to renew your “travel signature” and avoid the long lines at ISSO!
If you are planning to graduate in January of 2019, or if your I-20 or DS-2019 is expiring, then you may need to take steps with the ISSO before you depart the U.S. You may have difficulty returning to the U.S. in F-1 or J-1 status if your classes are done and you have no further academic activities to complete at BU. If you plan to request an I-20 extension, transfer to another school, or apply for post-completion OPT, we would encourage you to do this before you leave so that your I-20 correct reflects your future academic intentions.
Read below to make sure you have all the documents you need to return to the U.S.
Key Tips for International Travel:
- Is your visa valid for your return?
- Do you have a valid travel signature from the ISSO on your Form I-20 (F-1 students) or Form DS-2019 (J-1 students and scholars)?
- Do you have a copy of your I-901 SEVIS Fee Receipt?
Do you need to renew your visa on this trip?
The F-1 or J-1 visa stamp in your passport must be valid on the day you will reenter the U.S. in order for you to be eligible to return in a student immigration status. If your visa will expire before the date of your return, you must apply for a new visa at a U.S. consulate or embassy while you are out of the U.S. If this will be your first time applying for a visa renewal, plan to request a new travel signature before you leave the U.S. and to speak with an ISSO advisor to make sure you are prepared for your visa appointment.
Please note: Executive Order 13769 eliminated waivers of visa interviews for all countries. If you are planning to apply for a new visa during your travel, you may need to schedule an in-person visa interview at a U.S. consulate. If you need to apply for a new visa, you may face substantial administrative processing delays at the U.S. Embassy, which could delay your return to the United States to resume classes in the Spring. If you are unsure of whether or not to travel, you should consult with your academic department about the consequences to your academic progress if you are unable to return to the U.S. by the start of classes. The ISSO Advisor-on-Call will provide basic information about the visa application process when you request a travel signature. If you have questions about your specific travel plans, you can consult with your ISSO advisor.
If your visa has expired and you are planning a short trip to Canada, Mexico or the adjacent islands, read up on automatic visa revalidation to see if this special provision might apply to you.
If you will be applying for a new nonimmigrant visa while abroad, please be aware that U.S Department of State has introduced a new Form DS-5535, Supplemental Questions for Visa Applicants, which may be required at the point of visa renewal. This supplemental form is not be required for all visa applicants, but may be requested at the discretion of a consular officer. If you are asked to complete this form, you will need to disclose your travel, address, and employment history, family information, and social media handles. A copy of the Form DS-5535 can be found here.
What is a travel signature?
- A travel signature is a signature from an ISSO official on your I-20 or DS-2019
- This signature is generally valid for one year, and can be used for multiple trips abroad. (The signature is valid for six months only for F-1 students on approved F-1 Optional Practical Training.)
- You need to have a valid travel signature on the date you reenter the U.S. after international travel.
- A more recent travel signature is recommended if you plan to renew your visa on this trip abroad.
- If you have a valid travel signature already, there is no need to come to the ISSO to request one!
Do you need a travel signature?
Check to see if there is a travel signature on page 2 of your I-20 (for F-1 students), or on the right-hand side of your DS-2019 (for J-1 students). If your travel signature is up-to-date (within one year for continuing F-1 and J-1 students, or within six months for F-1 students on OPT).
If you already have a valid travel signature, then you do not need a new one! A travel signature is considered valid if it is dated no more than one year before the date you expect to return to the U.S. A more recent travel signature is recommended if you will renew your visa on this trip abroad.
A valid I-20 travel signature appears on page 2:
A sample DS-2019 signature appears on the right-hand side of the form:
How can I request a travel signature?
Bring your I-20 or DS-2019, along with your passport showing your most recent U.S. entry and your most recent visa, to the front desk of the ISSO to request a travel signature. Please plan ahead as travel signatures may take one business day for ISSO processing. Travel signatures can often be completed upon request if you choose to wait at the ISSO. Please come prepared to wait for this expedited service. Wait times for a same-day travel signature will vary. During our busiest times, we may not be able to accommodate same day travel signatures and next-day pick up of your document may be required.
What is my SEVIS Fee Receipt?
You may have paid your I-901 SEVIS Fee several years ago. All F-1 students and J-1 exchange visitors with “initial” immigration documents issued on or after 10/27/2008 were required to pay this SEVIS Fee when you first began your program of study. When entering the U.S. you may be asked to provide proof that this fee was paid. If you have been continuously enrolled with the same SEVIS record, you do not need to pay the fee again, provided you have proof of payment. If you took a leave of absence, had a break in status or traveled to regain status with a new SEVIS number, you will need to pay a new SEVIS Fee for a new SEVIS record. Proof of SEVIS Fee payment can be printed from the I-901 SEVIS Fee website.
What should I do after I return to the U.S.?
When you arrive in the U.S. by air or sea, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) may stamp your passport and will electronically update your I-94 entry record to reflect the immigration status in which you were admitted and the length of lawful stay that you have been granted. For F-1 students, J-1 exchange visitors, and your F-2 and J-2 dependents, your passport stamp and electronic record should reflect your correct status for “D/S” (duration of status). Each time you reenter the U.S. it is important to check both your passport stamp (if one is given) and your electronic I-94 record to make certain these are correct. We recommend that you retrieve your electronic I-94 record after each entry to the United States and save a copy of your records. Errors to your admission status or length of stay can jeopardize your ability to study, work and remain lawfully in the U.S. If you discover an error to your passport stamp or your electronic I-94 record, come to the ISSO immediately do discuss how this can be corrected.
U.S. Passport Entry Stamp
“F-1 D/S” = F-1 status for “Duration of Status”
Both your passport entry stamp and your I-94 record (below) should read F-1 or J-1 status (as appropriate) and “D/S” (for “duration of status) if you are a student pursuing a full course of study.
While not all Ports of Entry provide passports stamps, a clear passport stamp may be sufficient to show your admission in a specific immigration status. However, if you need to apply for employment authorization or other benefits from federal government agencies, you will need to present a print out of your electronic I-94 record.
I-94 Admission Number Retrieval
i94.cbp.dhs.gov/I94
________________________________
If you have further questions about international travel or visa renewal please contact the ISSO with or refer to the ISSO Travel Tips for more information.
In addition, students should pay careful attention to Boston University’s Health and Safety Advisories for travel to high-risk countries.
ISSO Advisory for Travel – Winter 2018/2019
Are you travelling outside the U.S. over Thanksgiving or Winter Intersession?
November is a great time to renew your “travel signature” and avoid the long lines at ISSO!
If you are planning to graduate in January of 2019, or if your I-20 or DS-2019 is expiring, then you may need to take steps with the ISSO before you depart the U.S. You may have difficulty returning to the U.S. in F-1 or J-1 status if your classes are done and you have no further academic activities to complete at BU. If you plan to request an I-20 extension, transfer to another school, or apply for post-completion OPT, we would encourage you to do this before you leave so that your I-20 correct reflects your future academic intentions.
Read below to make sure you have all the documents you need to return to the U.S.
Key Tips for International Travel:
- Is your visa valid for your return?
- Do you have a valid travel signature from the ISSO on your Form I-20 (F-1 students) or Form DS-2019 (J-1 students and scholars)?
- Do you have a copy of your I-901 SEVIS Fee Receipt?
Do you need to renew your visa on this trip?
The F-1 or J-1 visa stamp in your passport must be valid on the day you will reenter the U.S. in order for you to be eligible to return in a student immigration status. If your visa will expire before the date of your return, you must apply for a new visa at a U.S. consulate or embassy while you are out of the U.S. If this will be your first time applying for a visa renewal, plan to request a new travel signature before you leave the U.S. and to speak with an ISSO advisor to make sure you are prepared for your visa appointment.
Please note: Executive Order 13769 eliminated waivers of visa interviews for all countries. If you are planning to apply for a new visa during your travel, you may need to schedule an in-person visa interview at a U.S. consulate.
If your visa has expired and you are planning a short trip to Canada, Mexico or the adjacent islands, read up on automatic visa revalidation to see if this special provision might apply to you.
If you will be applying for a new nonimmigrant visa while abroad, please be aware that U.S Department of State has introduced a new Form DS-5535, Supplemental Questions for Visa Applicants, which may be required at the point of visa renewal. This supplemental form is not be required for all visa applicants, but may be requested at the discretion of a consular officer. If you are asked to complete this form, you will need to disclose your travel, address, and employment history, family information, and social media handles. A copy of the Form DS-5535 can be found here.
What is a travel signature?
- A travel signature is a signature from an ISSO official on your I-20 or DS-2019
- This signature is generally valid for one year, and can be used for multiple trips abroad. (The signature is valid for six months only for F-1 students on approved F-1 Optional Practical Training.)
- You need to have a valid travel signature on the date you reenter the U.S. after international travel.
- A more recent travel signature is recommended if you plan to renew your visa on this trip abroad.
- If you have a valid travel signature already, there is no need to come to the ISSO to request one!
Do you need a travel signature?
Check to see if there is a travel signature on page 2 of your I-20 (for F-1 students), or on the right-hand side of your DS-2019 (for J-1 students). If your travel signature is up-to-date (within one year for continuing F-1 and J-1 students, or within six months for F-1 students on OPT).
If you already have a valid travel signature, then you do not need a new one! A travel signature is considered valid if it is dated no more than one year before the date you expect to return to the U.S. A more recent travel signature is recommended if you will renew your visa on this trip abroad.
A valid I-20 travel signature appears on page 2:
A sample DS-2019 signature appears on the right-hand side of the form:
How can I request a travel signature?
Bring your I-20 or DS-2019, along with your passport showing your most recent U.S. entry and your most recent visa, to the front desk of the ISSO to request a travel signature. Please plan ahead as travel signatures may take one business day for ISSO processing. Travel signatures can often be completed upon request if you choose to wait at the ISSO. Please come prepared to wait a few minutes for this expedited service. During our busiest times, we may not be able to accommodate same day travel signatures and next-day pick up of your document may be required.
What is my SEVIS Fee Receipt?
You may have paid your I-901 SEVIS Fee several years ago. All F-1 students and J-1 exchange visitors with “initial” immigration documents issued on or after 10/27/2008 were required to pay this SEVIS Fee when you first began your program of study. When entering the U.S. you may be asked to provide proof that this fee was paid. If you have been continuously enrolled with the same SEVIS record, you do not need to pay the fee again, provided you have proof of payment. If you took a leave of absence, had a break in status or traveled to regain status with a new SEVIS number, you will need to pay a new SEVIS Fee for a new SEVIS record. Proof of SEVIS Fee payment can be printed from the I-901 SEVIS Fee website.
What should I do after I return to the U.S.?
When you arrive in the U.S. by air or sea, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) will stamp your passport and electronically update your I-94 entry record to reflect the immigration status in which you were admitted and the length of lawful stay that you have been granted. For F-1 students, J-1 exchange visitors, and your F-2 and J-2 dependents, your passport stamp and electronic record should reflect your correct status for “D/S” (duration of status). Each time you reenter the U.S. it is important to check both your passport stamp and your electronic I-94 record to make certain these are correct. Errors to your admission status or length of stay can jeopardize your ability to study, work and remain lawfully in the U.S. If you discover an error to your passport stamp or your electronic I-94 record, come to the ISSO immediately do discuss how this can be corrected.
U.S. Passport Entry Stamp
“F-1 D/S” = F-1 status for “Duration of Status”
Both your passport entry stamp and your I-94 record (below) should read F-1 or J-1 status (as appropriate) and “D/S” (for “duration of status) if you are a student pursuing a full course of study.
A clear passport stamp is often sufficient to show your admission in a specific immigration status. However, if the stamp in your passport is not clear, OR, you need to apply for employment authorization or other benefits from federal government agencies, you will need to present a print out of your electronic I-94 record.
I-94 Admission Number Retrieval
i94.cbp.dhs.gov/I94
If you have further questions about international travel or visa renewal please contact the ISSO with or refer to the ISSO Travel Tips.
In addition, students should pay careful attention to Boston University’s Health and Safety Advisories for travel to high-risk countries.
Changes to visa length for some Chinese students
The U.S. Department of State (“DOS”) has issued guidance to consular officers in China that could result in shorter visas for a small number of Chinese students beginning June 11, 2018.
While most Chinese nationals began receiving a multiple-entry F-1 student visa for a maximum of five years beginning November 14, 2014, graduate students who are studying in major fields related to robotics, aviation, and high-tech manufacturing may, at the discretion of the consular officer, now receive a multiple entry visa for a shorter 1-year time frame.
An F-1 visa is travel permission that must be valid on a day a student enters the U.S. but does not have to remain valid for the entire time a student stays in the U.S., provided the student continues to maintain lawful status. Students who enter the U.S. with a valid visa may remain in the U.S. for the duration of their program of study as well as any related periods of Optional Practical Training after program completion. However, students who receive a shorter visa under this change in guidance may be required to obtain a new F-1 visa each year if they travel outside of the U.S. and wish to return.
It is expected that consular officials will review student’s major fields of study and determine the length of the F-1 visa on a case-by-case basis. This change is not expected to affect visa applications for undergraduate students from China and should not affect students who have already been issued a visa for a longer duration. However, the policy change may still impact Chinese graduate students in the above-specified fields of study if they are still be in the process of applying for new F-1 visas this summer.
If you have specific questions about how this change might affect your situation, please feel free to contact your ISSO advisor directly.
ISSO Advisory for Travel – Summer 2018
Are you travelling outside the U.S. over summer break?
If you are planning to graduate in May or September of 2018, or if your I-20 or DS-2019 is expiring, then you may need to take steps with the ISSO before you depart the U.S. You may have difficulty returning to the U.S. in F-1 or J-1 status if your classes are done and you have no further academic activities to complete at BU. If you plan to request an I-20 extension, transfer to another school, or apply for post-completion OPT, we would encourage you to do this before you leave so that your I-20 correct reflects your future academic intentions.
The ISSO continues to closely monitor trends and potential changes in procedure related to international travel and visa applications, including continuing developments related to President Trump’s revised Executive Order. Most recently, in April 2018, Chad was removed from the list of countries subject to the proclamation. Please make certain you are aware of provisions of this order that may impact you and of the most recent updates on how the order is being enforced as court proceedings are expected to continue over the summer.
Some international travelers have reported that U.S. consular officials and U.S. Customs and Border Protection (USCBP) officials have been enforcing travel regulations very strictly. We would caution BU students to be especially well prepared with all correct documentation when applying for a new visa or when entering the U.S. this summer. Students should also continue to check the ISSO website for up-to-date information before returning to the U.S.
Read below to make sure you have all the documents you need to return to the U.S.
Key Tips for International Travel:
- Is your visa valid for your return?
- Do you have a valid travel signature from the ISSO on your Form I-20 (F-1 students) or Form DS-2019 (J-1 students and scholars)?
- Do you have a copy of your I-901 SEVIS Fee Receipt?
Do you need to renew your visa on this trip?
The F-1 or J-1 visa stamp in your passport must be valid on the day you will reenter the U.S. in order for you to be eligible to return in a student immigration status. If your visa will expire before the date of your return, you must apply for a new visa at a U.S. consulate or embassy while you are out of the U.S. If this will be your first time applying for a visa renewal, plan to request a new travel signature before you leave the U.S. and to speak with an ISSO advisor to make sure you are prepared for your visa appointment.
Please note: Executive Order 13769 eliminated waivers of visa interviews for all countries. If you are planning to apply for a new visa during your travel, you will need to schedule an in-person visa interview at a U.S. consulate.
If your visa has expired and you are planning a short trip to Canada, Mexico or the adjacent islands, read up on automatic visa revalidation to see if this special provision might apply to you.
If you will be applying for a new nonimmigrant visa while abroad, please be aware that U.S Department of State has introduced a new Form DS-5535, Supplemental Questions for Visa Applicants, which may be required at the point of visa renewal. This supplemental form is not be required for all visa applicants, but may be requested at the discretion of a consular officer. If you are asked to complete this form, you will need to disclose your travel, address, and employment history, family information, and social media handles. A copy of the Form DS-5535 can be found here.
What is a travel signature?
- A travel signature is a signature from an ISSO official on your I-20 or DS-2019
- This signature is generally valid for one year, and can be used for multiple trips abroad. (The signature is valid for six months only for F-1 students on approved F-1 Optional Practical Training.)
- You need to have a valid travel signature on the date you reenter the U.S. after international travel.
- A more recent travel signature is recommended if you plan to renew your visa on this trip abroad.
- If you have a valid travel signature already, there is no need to come to the ISSO to request one!
Do you need a travel signature?
Check to see if there is a travel signature on page 2 of your I-20 (for F-1 students), or on the right-hand side of your DS-2019 (for J-1 students). If your travel signature is up-to-date (within one year for continuing F-1 and J-1 students, or within six months for F-1 students on OPT).
If you already have a valid travel signature, then you do not need a new one! A travel signature is considered valid if it is dated no more than one year before the date you expect to return to the U.S. A more recent travel signature is recommended if you will renew your visa on this trip abroad.
A valid I-20 travel signature appears on page 2:
A sample DS-2019 signature appears on the right-hand side of the form:
How can I request a travel signature?
Bring your I-20 or DS-2019, along with your passport showing your most recent U.S. entry and your most recent visa, to the front desk of the ISSO to request a travel signature. Please plan ahead as travel signatures may take one business day for ISSO processing. Travel signatures can often be completed upon request if you choose to wait at the ISSO. Please come prepared to wait a few minutes for this expedited service. During our busiest times, we may not be able to accommodate same day travel signatures and next-day pick up of your document may be required.
What is my SEVIS Fee Receipt?
You may have paid your I-901 SEVIS Fee several years ago. All F-1 students and J-1 exchange visitors with “initial” immigration documents issued on or after 10/27/2008 were required to pay this SEVIS Fee when you first began your program of study. When entering the U.S. you may be asked to provide proof that this fee was paid. If you have been continuously enrolled with the same SEVIS record, you do not need to pay the fee again, provided you have proof of payment. If you took a leave of absence, had a break in status or traveled to regain status with a new SEVIS number, you will need to pay a new SEVIS Fee for a new SEVIS record. Proof of SEVIS Fee payment can be printed from the I-901 SEVIS Fee website.
What should I do after I return to the U.S.?
When you arrive in the U.S. by air or sea, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) will stamp your passport and electronically update your I-94 entry record to reflect the immigration status in which you were admitted and the length of lawful stay that you have been granted. For F-1 students, J-1 exchange visitors, and your F-2 and J-2 dependents, your passport stamp and electronic record should reflect your correct status for “D/S” (duration of status). Each time you reenter the U.S. it is important to check both your passport stamp and your electronic I-94 record to make certain these are correct. Errors to your admission status or length of stay can jeopardize your ability to study, work and remain lawfully in the U.S. If you discover an error to your passport stamp or your electronic I-94 record, come to the ISSO immediately do discuss how this can be corrected.
U.S. Passport Entry Stamp
“F-1 D/S” = F-1 status for “Duration of Status”
Both your passport entry stamp and your I-94 record (below) should read F-1 or J-1 status (as appropriate) and “D/S” (for “duration of status) if you are a student pursuing a full course of study.
A clear passport stamp is often sufficient to show your admission in a specific immigration status. However, if the stamp in your passport is not clear, OR, you need to apply for employment authorization or other benefits from federal government agencies, you will need to present a print out of your electronic I-94 record.
I-94 Admission Number Retrieval
If you have further questions about international travel or visa renewal please contact the ISSO with or refer to the ISSO Travel Tips for more information.
In addition, students should pay careful attention to Boston University’s Health and Safety Advisories for travel to high-risk countries.
ISSO Advisory for Travel – Winter 2017/2018
Are you travelling outside the U.S. over Thanksgiving or Winter Intersession?
Read below to make sure you have all the documents you need to return to the U.S.
NOTE: If you are planning to graduate in January 2018 or if your I-20/DS-2019 is expiring, then you may need to take steps with the ISSO before you travel. You may have difficulty returning to the U.S. in F-1 or J-1 status if your classes are done and you have no further academic activities to complete at BU. If you plan to request an I-20 extension, transfer to another school, or apply for post-completion OPT, we would encourage you to do this before you leave so that your I-20 correct reflects your future academic intentions.
Key Tips for International Travel:
- Is your visa valid for your return?
- Do you have a valid travel signature from the ISSO on your Form I-20 (F-1 students) or Form DS-2019 (J-1 students and scholars)?
- Do you have a copy of your I-901 SEVIS Fee Receipt?
Do you need to renew your visa on this trip?
The F-1 or J-1 visa stamp in your passport must be valid on the day you will reenter the U.S. in order for you to be eligible to return in a student immigration status. If your visa will expire before the date of your return, you must apply for a new visa at a U.S. consulate or embassy while you are out of the U.S. If this will be your first time applying for a visa renewal, plan to request a new travel signature before you leave the U.S. and to speak with an ISSO advisor to make sure you are prepared for your visa appointment.
Please note: Executive Order 13769 eliminated waivers of visa interviews for all countries. If you are planning to apply for a new visa during your travel, you will need to schedule an in-person visa interview at a U.S. consulate.
If your visa has expired and you are planning a short trip to Canada, Mexico or the adjacent islands, read up on automatic visa revalidation to see if this special provision might apply to you.
What is a travel signature?
- A travel signature is a signature from an ISSO official on your I-20 or DS-2019
- This signature is generally valid for one year, and can be used for multiple trips abroad. (The signature is valid for six months only for F-1 students on approved F-1 Optional Practical Training.)
- You need to have a valid travel signature on the date you reenter the U.S. after international travel.
- A more recent travel signature is recommended if you plan to renew your visa on this trip abroad.
- If you have a valid travel signature already, there is no need to come to the ISSO to request one!
Do you need a travel signature?
Check to see if there is a travel signature on page 2 of your I-20 (for F-1 students), or on the right-hand side of your DS-2019 (for J-1 students). If your travel signature is up-to-date (within one year for continuing F-1 and J-1 students, or within six months for F-1 students on OPT).
If you already have a valid travel signature, then you do not need a new one! A travel signature is considered valid if it is dated no more than one year before the date you expect to return to the U.S. A more recent travel signature is recommended if you will renew your visa on this trip abroad.
A valid I-20 travel signature appears on page 2:
A sample DS-2019 signature appears on the right-hand side of the form:
How can I request a travel signature?
Bring your passport with most recent visa, I-20 or DS-2019 and I-94 card (if applicable) to the front desk of the ISSO and request a travel signature. Please plan ahead as travel signatures may take one business day for ISSO processing. Travel signatures can often be completed upon request if you choose to wait at the ISSO. However, during busy travel times, please come prepared to wait a few minutes for this expedited service.
What is my SEVIS Fee Receipt?
You may have paid your I-901 SEVIS Fee several years ago. All F-1 students and J-1 exchange visitors with “initial” immigration documents issued on or after 10/27/2008 were required to pay this SEVIS Fee when you first began your program of study. When entering the U.S. you may be asked to provide proof that this fee was paid. If you have been continuously enrolled with the same SEVIS record, you do not need to pay the fee again, provided you have proof of payment. If you took a leave of absence, had a break in status or traveled to regain status with a new SEVIS number, you will need to pay a new SEVIS Fee for a new SEVIS record. Proof of SEVIS Fee payment can be printed from the I-901 SEVIS Fee website.
What should I do after I return to the U.S.?
When you arrive in the U.S. by air or sea, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) will stamp your passport and electronically update your I-94 entry record to reflect the immigration status in which you were admitted and the length of lawful stay that you have been granted. For F-1 students, J-1 exchange visitors, and your F-2 and J-2 dependents, your passport stamp and electronic record should reflect your correct status for “D/S” (duration of status). Each time you reenter the U.S. it is important to check both your passport stamp and your electronic I-94 record to make certain these are correct. Errors to your admission status or length of stay can jeopardize your ability to study, work and remain lawfully in the U.S. If you discover an error to your passport stamp or your electronic I-94 record, come to the ISSO immediately do discuss how this can be corrected.
U.S. Passport Entry Stamp
“F-1 D/S” = F-1 status for “Duration of Status”
A clear passport stamp is often sufficient to show your admission in a specific immigration status. However, if the stamp in your passport is not clear, OR, you need to apply for employment authorization or other benefits from federal government agencies, you will need to present a print out of your electronic I-94 record.
I-94 Admission Number Retrieval
i94.cbp.dhs.gov/I94
If you have further questions about international travel or visa renewal please contact the ISSO with or refer to the ISSO Travel Tips for more information.
In addition, students should pay careful attention to Boston University’s Health and Safety Advisories for travel to high-risk countries.
ISSO Travel Advisory – Summer 2017
Are you travelling outside the U.S. over summer break?
Read below to make sure you have all the documents you need to return to the U.S. after international travel.
NOTICE: The ISSO continues to closely monitor trends and potential changes in procedure related to international travel and visa applications, including continuing developments related to President Trump’s revised Executive Order. Please make certain you are aware of provisions of this order that may impact you and of the most recent updates on how the order is being enforced as court proceedings are expected to continue over the summer.
Some international travelers have reported that U.S. consular officials and U.S. Customs and Border Protection (USCBP) officials have been enforcing travel regulations very strictly. We would caution BU students to be especially well prepared with all correct documentation when applying for a new visa or when entering the U.S. this summer. Students should also continue to check the ISSO website for up-to-date information before returning to the U.S.
For those students graduating in May 2017 or September 2017 or whose I-20/DS-2019 will be expiring in May or September: If you plan to request an I-20 or DS-2019 extension, transfer to another school or apply for post-completion F-1 Optional Practical Training or J-1 Academic Training, we would encourage you to do this before you leave the U.S. so that your I-20 or DS-2019 correctly reflects your future academic intentions.
Key Tips for International Travel:
- Is your visa valid for your return?
- Do you have a valid travel signature from the ISSO on your Form I-20 (F-1 students) or Form DS-2019 (J-1 students and scholars)?
- Do you have a copy of your I-901 SEVIS Fee Receipt?
Do you need to renew your visa on this trip?
The F-1 or J-1 visa stamp in your passport must be valid on the day you will reenter the U.S. in order for you to be eligible to return in a student immigration status. If your visa will expire before the date of your return, you must apply for a new visa at a U.S. consulate or embassy while you are out of the U.S. If this will be your first time applying for a visa renewal, plan to request a new travel signature before you leave the U.S. and to speak with an ISSO advisor to make sure you are prepared for your visa appointment.
If your visa has expired and you are planning a short trip to Canada, Mexico or the adjacent islands, read up on automatic visa revalidation to see if this special provision might apply to you.
The Executive Order on Travel eliminated waivers of visa interviews for all countries. If you are planning to apply for a new visa during your travel, you will need to schedule an in-person visa interview at a U.S. consulate. We expect that this may lead to longer than usual delays in visa processing over the coming months.
What is a travel signature?
- A travel signature is a signature from an ISSO official on your I-20 or DS-2019
- This signature is generally valid for one year, and can be used for multiple trips abroad. (The signature is valid for six months only for F-1 students on approved F-1 Optional Practical Training.)
- You need to have a valid travel signature on the date you reenter the U.S. after international travel.
- A more recent travel signature is recommended if you plan to renew your visa on this trip abroad.
- If you have a valid travel signature already, there is no need to come to the ISSO to request one!
Do you need a travel signature?
Check to see if there is a travel signature on page 2 of your I-20 (for F-1 students), or on the right-hand side of your DS-2019 (for J-1 students). If your travel signature is up-to-date (within one year for continuing F-1 and J-1 students, or within six months for F-1 students on OPT).
If you already have a valid travel signature, then you do not need a new one! A travel signature is considered valid if it is dated no more than one year before the date you expect to return to the U.S. A more recent travel signature is recommended if you will renew your visa on this trip abroad.
A valid I-20 travel signature appears on page 2:
A sample DS-2019 signature appears on the right-hand side of the form:
How can I request a travel signature?
Bring your passport with most recent visa, I-20 or DS-2019 and I-94 card (if applicable) to the front desk of the ISSO and request a travel signature. Please plan ahead as travel signatures may take one business day for ISSO processing. Travel signatures can often be completed upon request if you choose to wait at the ISSO. However, during busy travel times, please come prepared to wait a few minutes for this expedited service.
What is my SEVIS Fee Receipt?
You may have paid your I-901 SEVIS Fee several years ago. All F-1 students and J-1 exchange visitors with “initial” immigration documents issued on or after 10/27/2008 were required to pay this SEVIS Fee when you first began your program of study. When entering the U.S. you may be asked to provide proof that this fee was paid. If you have been continuously enrolled with the same SEVIS record, you do not need to pay the fee again, provided you have proof of payment. If you took a leave of absence, had a break in status or traveled to regain status with a new SEVIS number, you will need to pay a new SEVIS Fee for a new SEVIS record. Proof of SEVIS Fee payment can be printed from the I-901 SEVIS Fee website.
What should I do after I return to the U.S.?
When you arrive in the U.S. by air or sea, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) will stamp your passport and electronically update your I-94 entry record to reflect the immigration status in which you were admitted and the length of lawful stay that you have been granted. For F-1 students, J-1 exchange visitors, and your F-2 and J-2 dependents, your passport stamp and electronic record should reflect your correct status for “D/S” (duration of status). Each time you reenter the U.S. it is important to check both your passport stamp and your electronic I-94 record to make certain these are correct. Errors to your admission status or length of stay can jeopardize your ability to study, work and remain lawfully in the U.S. If you discover an error to your passport stamp or your electronic I-94 record, come to the ISSO immediately do discuss how this can be corrected.
U.S. Passport Entry Stamp
"F-1 D/S" = F-1 status for "Duration of Status"
A clear passport stamp is often sufficient to show your admission in a specific immigration status. However, if the stamp in your passport is not clear, OR, you need to apply for employment authorization or other benefits from federal government agencies, you will need to present a print out of your electronic I-94 record.
I-94 Admission Number Retrieval
Watch out! Should read “F-1” or “J-1” status for “D/S” (duration of status) for students pursuing full-time study.
If you have further questions about international travel or visa renewal please contact the ISSO with or refer to the ISSO Travel Tips for more information.
In addition, students should pay careful attention to Boston University’s Health and Safety Advisories for travel to high-risk countries.
Executive Order 13769 Bans Travel to the U.S. for Citizens of Certain Countries
Within his first week in office, President Trump signed several Executive Orders that will have implications for international students and scholars in the U.S.
On January 27, 2017, President Trump signed an Executive Order entitled Protecting the Nation from Terrorist Entry into the United States by Foreign Nationals.
In summary, this order includes the following key provisions:
- Suspends entry into the United States of both nonimmigrants and immigrants from 7 countries (Iran, Iraq. Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria and Yemen) for 90 days, except for those traveling on diplomatic, NATO, C-2, G-1, G-2, G-3, and G-4 visas.
- Suspends the issuance of visas and "other immigration benefits" for citizens of the listed countries.
- Establishes protocol for removing or adding countries to the list, depending on cooperation from foreign government agencies.
- Suspends the waiver of an in-person interview for visa applications for citizens of all countries.
- Suspends the U.S. Refugee Admissions Program for 120 days.
- Suspends U.S. admission for Syrian refugees indefinitely.
- Calls for review of reciprocity agreements between the U.S. and foreign countries
- Mandates "expedited completion" of a Biometric Entry-Exit Tracking System for all travelers to the U.S.
As of Sunday, January 29, the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) in NY had secured a temporary stay of this order and separately two federal judges in Boston granted a 7-day temporary restraining order to the order prohibiting Department of Homeland Security from denying entry to the U.S. for individuals with a valid nonimmigrant, immigrant or refugee visa.
There continues to be confusion as to the implementation of the Executive Order. We will continue to seek clarification from various government agencies and will update the BU community as more information becomes available.
If you are a student or scholar from one of the above countries and currently in the United States in any nonimmigrant status, (e.g., B, F, J, H, O, TN, etc.) the ISSO would advise against travel outside the United States, as you may not be permitted return in accordance with this ban. If you are affected by this Executive Order, please contact the ISSO immediately so that we can update you on the current state of this order.
ISSO Advisory for Travel – Winter 2016
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ISSO Advisory for Travel
Are you travelling outside the U.S. over Thanksgiving or Winter Intersession?
Redesigned Form I-20 Reflects SEVIS Updates
The Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) was upgraded in June of 2015 to revise the look and data contained on the redesigned Form I-20 for F-1 students.
All students in continuing F-1 status will be required to have an updated version I-20 before July 1, 2016. Changes were also made to the Form I-20 for F-2 dependents. Over the course of this school year, the ISSO will be issuing new version I-20s to all continuing F-1 students and their F-2 dependents:
- If you have an I-20 issued on or after June 29, 2015, then you already have a new version I-20. You may have received a new version I-20, for instance, to reflect a new admission, change of major, program extension, or if you received an authorization for CPT or a recommendation for OPT.
- For students traveling out of the U.S. this winter over the Thanksgiving holiday or Winter Intersession, the ISSO will be issuing new version I-20s along with all travel signature requests.
- If you are not traveling this winter, the ISSO will be reissuing new version I-20s to all continuing students in the spring of 2016.
- If your F-1 program will be ending before June 2016, then you will not need a new version I-20, as this requirement will not go into effect until July 1, 2016.
Have you received your New Version I-20? Respond to our questionnaire here.
Welcome, New Students!
Riho Imada (from left) and Akari Noguchi, both students at the Center for English Language and Orientation Programs, and Andrew Burwash (CAS'18) at the International Student Reception, held September 4 at the Trustee Ballroom. Photo by Jackie Riccardi
