Traveling Abroad

Before you travel outside of the United States:

• Check if the visa in your passport is still valid. If it has expired you will need to obtain a new I-20 in order to apply for an extension of your visa at the American Embassy or Consulate in your country.
   
• Schedule an appointment with the American Embassy or Consulate if you changed your status. If you changed your status in the United States and wish to leave the U.S. temporarily, you must go to the American Embassy or Consulate in your country to apply for a student visa to re-enter. Without this visa you will not be readmitted into the United States. If you have a different visa that is still valid, you may not use it to re-enter the U.S. as a student. Please note that it is difficult to obtain student visas. It is advised that students who have changed their status remain in the U.S. until they complete their studies because of this difficulty.
   
• Have the back of your I-20 signed. In order to be granted readmission into the United States you will need a valid passport, F-1 visa, and the back of your I-20 signed. Please come to the OISS at least a two weeks prior to your departure date. Without this signature, you will not be readmitted into the United States.
   
• If you have recently applied for practical training, we strongly advise you not to travel until you have received the Employment Authorization Card from USCIS.
   
•  If you have applied to change your status, you must wait until USCIS sends you a fully endorsed I-20 before you can travel. If you travel before it arrives, your application to change your status will be voided.
   
• Should you have any questions about traveling abroad, call (914) 606-8567 or Email the OISS at Anne.Verini@sunywcc.edu

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