Traveling within the U.S.

• Carry a copy of your current I-20 or DS-2019 and your passport.
  • You likely will not be required to present these documents, however you will be asked to present them if you are detained by an immigration officer for any reason.
• Be prepared to present an official photo ID such as a driver's license, ID card, or passport when traveling by plane or train.
• Carry your passport or copies of all immigration documents and a state ID when visiting U.S. airports, even if not traveling.
• Keep your passport valid for six months into the future at all times.

Traveling outside the U.S.

Documents to carry with you

• I-20 (F-1) or DS-2019 (J-1) with valid travel signature or endorsement
  • Travel signatures are on page 2 of the I-20 or page 1 of the DS-2019.
  • Current students: Travel signatures are valid for one year or until your program end date, whichever comes first.
  • OPT or STEM OPT students: Travel signatures are valid for six months during Optional Practical Training.
  • Travel signatures are required for re-entry to the U.S. They are not required for departure.
• Valid passport (valid for 6 months into the future on the date of re-entry).
• Valid United States visa, with exceptions for Canada, Mexico, and adjacent islands for 30 days or less.
• Proof of enrollment past and future (recommended).
• If you have optional practical training status, also carry your Employment Authorization Document card and proof of employment.
• If you changed immigration status while in the U.S., carry your change of status approval notice (I-797).

To obtain a travel signature

• Request your travel signature from the Center for International Studies at least 3 weeks before you depart. Allow 5-7 business days for processing.

Requesting a travel signature

• By email: international@stcloudstate.edu
  • Subject: I-20 (or DS-2019) Travel Signature
  • Include last name, first name, Tech ID, SEVIS identification (ID) number, personal email, and expected travel dates.
• In person: If you have your latest I-20 or DS-2019, submit with the travel signature request. If you require a new one, please request a reprint with travel signature.
• New I-20s or DS-2019s are sent by email. Print the document and sign it in blue ink on page 1.

Key points

• Check whether the countries you are visiting require a visa, such as a transit visa.
  • If your U.S. visa has expired, you must apply for a new U.S. visa at a U.S. consulate or embassy abroad.
• For visa renewal information, visit the Department of State Travel page.
• Surrender your I-94 card when leaving the U.S., with exceptions for Canada, Mexico, and adjacent islands for 30 days or less.
• Additional information is available on the Government Resources page.

Key points for travelers

• Check your St. Cloud State University email while away. All university notices, including information that could affect your immigration status, will be communicated via email.
• Ensure there are no holds on your student account.
• Carry your health insurance card inside and outside of the U.S. If you have not received one, contact the Medical Clinic at 320-308-3191.

Emergencies

Carry the St. Cloud State University Emergency Contact Card for International Students. It is available at the Center for International Studies front desk.

If you need assistance while traveling, contact St. Cloud State University Public Safety at 320-308-3333. Public Safety accepts collect calls, both local and international.

• In the U.S., dial '0' from a landline phone and ask the operator to make a collect call.
• For international collect calls, ask the phone operator in the country you are calling from to place the call.