Visa for Travel to or through Another Country

Before leaving the U.S., prepare the following documents. On your return flight to the U.S., make sure these documents are in your carry-on luggage. 

Valid passport (must be valid at least 6 months into the future from your return date)
Valid U.S. visa in the passport (except citizens of Canada and Bermuda)
Valid form I-20 (F-1) / DS-2019 (J-1) with ISSA travel signature. Request a travel signature in iStart, under Other Requests, well in advance of travel. 

Note: For active F-1 and J-1 students, a travel signature is valid for 12 months, and for those on OPT/STEM OPT, the travel signature is valid for 6 months. In either situation, it can be used for multiple trips during that time.

Students on OPT or STEM OPT: In addition to the above documents, you will need:  

Employment letter
EAD card  

Note: Re-entry is not permitted during the grace period at the end of F-1 or J-1 status. 

Recommended (Not Required) Documents for Current Students 

Transcripts 
Enrollment verification or proof of registration for the next semester 
Current proof of financial support 

Additional information on returning to the U.S. is available at Department of Homeland Security FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions) under F Non-Immigrants: Entry and Exit. 

Visa for Travel To or Through Another Country

You may need a visa to enter or transit through another country depending on your country of citizenship and legal permanent residence. Check the embassy of the country you will travel through for more details.
You may need a visa to enter Canada, Mexico, or adjacent islands even if you may be able to use “automatic revalidation” to re-enter the U.S. from these countries. For more information about automatic revalidation, please visit the Department of State's website.
It is your responsibility to learn about the visa requirements to enter another country.  ISSA can only advise on the requirements for entry/re-entry to the U.S.