Citizens of Canada or Bermuda
If you take a short trip or summer break abroad and will return to the U.S. to continue your academic program or authorized employment, plan ahead.
Requirements for citizens of Canada or Bermuda re-entering the U.S. in F-1 or J-1 status:
- A valid passport and I-20/DS-2019 with a valid travel signature.
- No visa in the passport for entry or re-entry needed.
Note: Please request an I-94 at the border when admitted or re-admitted to the U.S. in F-1/J-1 status.
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.
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
Requirements for citizens of Canada or Bermuda re-entering the U.S. in F-1 or J-1 status:
- A valid passport and I-20/DS-2019 with a valid travel signature.
- No visa in the passport for entry or re-entry needed.
Note: Please request an I-94 at the border when admitted or re-admitted to the U.S. in F-1/J-1 status.
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.
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
