International Travel

ISSS does not recommend traveling while your Post-Completion OPT application is pending. If you absolutely need to travel during this time, please speak with an ISSS advisor.

If you are traveling while your STEM OPT application is pending, we recommend having the following documents with you: valid visa and valid passport, EAD card, your stem opt receipt notice. Bringing something that shows you are actively employed (such as a paystub) is also recommended.

• Keep in mind: RFI letters often require a quick turn around. If you need to be out of the country while your extension is pending, have someone check your mail for you so you don’t miss important USCIS information.
• If you exceed the limits on unemployment while outside the United States, you will not be eligible to re-enter the United States in F-1 status.
• The specific regulatory language about your 180 day extension while the STEM OPT request is pending is: 8 CFR 274a.12(b)(6)(iv). This regulation notes that employment is authorized beginning on the expiration date of the Form I-765 or successor form issued under paragraph (c)(3)(i)(B) of this section and ending on the date of USCIS’ written decision on the current Form I-765 or successor form, but not to exceed 180 days. For this same period, such Form I-766 or successor form is automatically extended and is considered unexpired when combined with a Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant (F-1/M-1) Students, Form I-20 or successor form, endorsed by the Designated School Official recommending such an extension.
• Keep in mind that if you exceed the limits on unemployment while outside the United States, you will not be eligible to re-enter the United States in F-1 status.

You are expected to travel with your EAD card in addition to your normal travel documents. You also need to have a valid travel signature on your I-20. Travel signatures for students on OPT/STEM OPT are valid for 6 months. ISSS recommends traveling with evidence that you are employed (such as a pay stub). Keep in mind that if you exceed the limits on unemployment while outside the United States, you will not be eligible to re-enter the United States in F-1 status.

If you are a scholar or visiting faculty you can find information researching outside the U.S. and personal travel on the Current J-1 Scholar Information page.