Travel Signatures
For F-1 students, the travel signature is located on page 2 of your I-20 document. The travel signature is VALID FOR ONE YEAR from the date it was signed, unless you are on OPT or STEM Extension. For students on OPT or STEM Extension, the travel signature is VALID FOR 6 MONTHS.
For J-1 students, the travel signature is located on page 1 of your DS-2019 document. The travel signature is VALID FOR ONE YEAR from the date it was signed.
How Do I Request a Travel Signature?
If you do not have a travel signature on your I-20/DS-2019 or if the signature is no longer valid, you can request a new travel signature by following the steps below.
- Submit a Travel Signature Request in the ISSS Portal.
- You will be notified via email when your new I-20/DS-2019 is ready.
- After you receive your new document, make sure to look over your I-20/DS-2019 to verify that all the information is correct before signing it. You should retain ALL your documents, but this newest I-20/DS-2019 will be what you show the border agent upon reentry.
Students currently on Optional Practical Training (OPT) or STEM Extension should also visit those sections of our website for further details regarding travel while on OPT/STEM.
What happens if I forget to request a travel signature?
F-1 students who forget to request a travel signature before departing the U.S. can request a travel signature from abroad by completing the same steps listed above. Make sure to print and sign your new I-20 document before your reentry.
J-1 students who forget to request a travel signature before departing the U.S. should contact ISSS immediately.
IMPORTANT: Please note that forging or altering an official university document may be considered an Act of Dishonesty under the University's Code of Student Conduct.