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As an international student studying in the US, you may want to travel outside of the country during your academic program. However, before you leave, you need to make sure that you have the necessary travel documents, including the i20 travel signature.
What is the i20 Travel Signature?
The i20 travel signature is a document that proves you are maintaining your F-1 visa status while traveling outside of the US. It is a signature from your Designated School Official (DSO) that confirms your intent to return to the US after your trip.
Why is the i20 Travel Signature Important?
Without the i20 travel signature, you may not be allowed to re-enter the US after your trip. This is because the i20 travel signature proves that you have maintained your F-1 visa status and intend to return to the US to continue your academic program.
When Do You Need to Obtain the i20 Travel Signature?
You need to obtain the i20 travel signature every time you plan to travel outside of the US during your academic program. It is recommended to obtain it at least two weeks before your travel date to ensure that you have enough time to receive it.
How to Obtain the i20 Travel Signature?
To obtain the i20 travel signature, you need to contact your DSO at your university or college. They will review your SEVIS record to ensure that you are in proper status and then sign your i20 document.
What are the Requirements for Obtaining the i20 Travel Signature?
To obtain the i20 travel signature, you must:
- Be in valid F-1 visa status
- Be currently enrolled in a full-time academic program
- Have a valid passport
- Have a valid US visa
- Have a valid i20 document
- Have a SEVIS record in good standing
How Long is the i20 Travel Signature Valid?
The i20 travel signature is valid for one year. However, if you plan to travel multiple times during that year, you need to obtain a new travel signature for each trip.
What Happens if You Don’t Have the i20 Travel Signature?
If you don’t have the i20 travel signature, you may be denied entry into the US at the border. You will then need to apply for a new visa and go through the immigration process again.
FAQ
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Can I obtain the i20 travel signature from any DSO? | No, you can only obtain the i20 travel signature from the DSO at the university or college that issued your i20 document. |
| Do I need to schedule an appointment with my DSO to obtain the i20 travel signature? | It depends on the policy of your university or college. Some may require an appointment, while others may allow walk-ins. |
| How long does it take to obtain the i20 travel signature? | It depends on the policy of your university or college. Some may provide it immediately, while others may take a few days. |
| What if my i20 document expires before I return to the US? | You will need to obtain a new i20 document and apply for a new F-1 visa. |
Overall, the i20 travel signature is an important document for international students traveling outside of the US during their academic program. Make sure to obtain it in a timely manner and follow all requirements to ensure a smooth re-entry into the US.