Please carry the following documents on you when leaving and re-entering the U.S. Do NOT pack them in luggage to be checked in the plane.
- Your passport: Be sure that the expiration date is still good for your return date to the U.S. !
- Your student visa: Again, be sure that the visa expiration date is still good for your return date to the U.S. ! If it is expired or going to expire, come to the office as soon as possible!
- Your I-94 Card: This is the little white card usually stapled in the passport. You will receive a new I-94 with each re-entry.
- F-1 Visa Students should have your SEVIS form I-20. Be sure this document is signed and dated by the International Student Advisor. The document is good for 1 year of travel after the date of the signature on page 3, unless you are out of the U.S. for over 5 months. If you are out of the US for more than 5 months, you will need a new I-20.
If you are on OPT, the I-20 must be signed for travel within 6 months of your return date to the U.S. *
Make sure to call the International Student Office first to make sure someone is available to sign your I-20. 474-2479
- J-1 Visa Students should have your SEVIS form DS-2019: The travel signature is good for travel within 12 months of the dated signature, or 6 months if you are a short term student or scholar. The international student advisor may sign for travel.
- Evidence of financial resources: bank statement, original financial documents, scholarship letters, previously paid tuition receipt, etc.
- Evidence of student or exchange visitor status: UWF Certificate of Enrollment and current semester registration. You might also bring a tuition receipt, transcript, letter of acceptance, etc.
- The name and contact information of your Designated School Official (D.S.O. for F-1 students or A.R.O. for J-1 students): business card from Dr. Angela McCorvey or Rachel Errington
* If you are on OPT (Optional Practical Training)…
- A letter of a job offer, or an Employer’s letter explaining you are returning to the U.S. on OPT to resume work is now necessary to return to the U.S. if you leave on OPT.
- I-20 with OPT recommendation signed within 6 months of your return to the U.S. ( See #3 above).
- Your EAD card. Make sure you bring this card with you when traveling.