Travel on OPT

RULE PUBLICATION ANNOUNCEMENT

A new federal immigration rule has been published. The effective date of this rule is delayed due to a preliminary injunction order issued on September 14, 2026.
We will update our webpage as more information becomes available.
The rule replaces Duration of Status (D/S) with fixed‑date admissions for student and exchange visitor visa holders in the U.S., and makes changes to regulations related to educational objectives, including requirements affecting transfers, changes of major, and changes of degree level.

End of Duration of Status and Changes to Academic Mobility | Zoom Meetings Every Wednesday and Thursday
Wednesdays at 11:00 a.m. | Thursdays at 3:30 p.m.
MEETINGS WILL NOT BE HELD OCTOBER 7 OR OCTOBER 8

The Student and Exchange Visitor Program office at the Department of Homeland Security has issued operating instructions for travel during OPT.

Please see below for requirements:

You may re-enter to continue seeking employment
Carry your I-765 receipt with you
Make sure your I-20 is endorsed for travel within 6 months of your return date
You must have a valid F-1 visa stamp to re-enter
You must have a valid passport with more than 6 months validity remaining

If your OPT has been approved and you depart before you get a job, your OPT ends and you cannot re-enter.
If you have a job, you may travel and re-enter to resume work at the same job.
- Carry an employment letter with you
- Carry your EAD card
- Make sure your I-20 has been endorsed in the last 6 months
- You must have a valid F-1 visa stamp to re-enter
- You must have a valid passport with more than 6 months validity remaining

While you are on OPT, you are still in F-1 visa status and must have a valid F-1 visa stamp to re-enter the U.S.

For this visa category, you must satisfy the consular official that you have sufficient intent to return to your home country. This may be a challenge when you have completed your degree, and are employed.
We do not recommend international travel if you require a new F-1 visa stamp.