We wish you a safe and healthy holiday season. While on OPT, you are welcome to travel home for the holidays. Before returning to the U.S., the ISSC has important travel information for you.

If you are traveling out of the country, check page 2 of your I-20 to see if you have a valid travel signature. This signature is required for you to re-enter the U.S.

• For students on Post-OPT/STEM OPT, the travel signature is good for six months from the date it was last signed.

To come back to the U.S., you need certain documents. The ISSC has prepared a guide with important travel tips and reminders. We recommend printing this guide and keeping it with you while traveling.

If you are traveling within the U.S., you don’t need a travel signature, but make sure to carry your identification documents.

You can request a travel signature for your I-20 through the MyISSC eForm Portal. Keep in mind, a travel signature is not required to leave the U.S., only to re-enter. Plan ahead—last-minute requests cannot be expedited, and processing takes up to 7 business days (not counting weekends or holidays).

Once you re-enter the U.S., check your I-94 record about a week after your arrival to make sure it reflects your most recent entry.