News

Alt text: Gray graphic with arrow patterns and a passport icon, featuring the text “Carry your Immigration Documents” in bold yellow and black lettering.

Carrying your Immigration Documents

  
Please remember you are responsible for maintaining your nonimmigrant status during your stay in the U.S. including while on OPT and keeping your documents accessible and up to date.

You should keep your immigration documents in a safe, readily accessible place. It is recommended that you carry a copy of your immigration documentation (proof of your status) at all times. It is a good practice to also have a digitized set of these documents saved on your phone and computer.

Always have the following required documents: 

  • Valid OPT I-20
  • Copy of your most recent I-94 Arrival Record
  • Valid passport - Please ensure that your passport remains valid for at least six months beyond your anticipated stay in the U.S.
  • OPT EAD card
     

You may be asked to show these documents to establish your identity at airports, train stations, bus stations, vehicle checkpoints, and other transportation hubs within the U.S. 
 

Devices and Social Media: When you travel in the U.S. by air or land, officers may search your phone, tablet, laptop, or other devices, and check your social media accounts. They can look at your posts, comments, photos, and your friends list. 

What you share online can impact your immigration status or your future admissibility into the U.S. Therefore, it is recommended that you:

  • Be cautious with friend requests: Do not accept requests from people you do not know.
  • Think before you post: Avoid sharing about topics that could be misunderstood or used against you, including comments in chat rooms.
  • Review your devices: Check what is stored on the device, including deleted files, as officers may ask you to unlock your device. If you refuse, devices can be confiscated.