Office of International Students & Scholars (ISS)
104 Holcombe Hall
Fayetteville, AR 72701
Tel: 1-479-575-5003
Fax: 1-479-575-7084
iss@uark.edu
Travel
Department of Homeland Security requires all students to obtain travel authorization from their DSO (ISS advisor) within 6 months prior to international travel. Students must schedule an appointment two weeks prior to travel to have their I-20s (F-1) or DS-2019s (J-1) signed for travel.
In addition to obtaining a travel signature, students should carry the following documents when traveling:
- Valid passport
- Valid visa
- Signed I-20 or DS-2019
- Current proof of financial support
- Proof of full-time enrollment
- SEVIS fee receipt (click here to reprint a copy of your receipt)
- Please review I-94 procedures
Special Travel Considerations:
NSEERS (National Security Entry and Exit Registration System): Some students may be subject to NSEERS requirements when traveling. Visit the USCIS website or contact your ISS advisor for more details.
OPT (F-1 Students): Travel while on Optional Practical Training is risky. After your I-20 has expired, you MUST travel with the following documents to be allowed re-entry:
- Valid passport
- Valid F-1 visa
- I-20 signed with a special OPT signature within the past 6 months
- Valid EAD
- Letter from your employer stating that you will return to the U.S. to resume employment on your OPT.
Cap-Gap (F-1 Students): International travel while on Cap-Gap will cancel any pending H-1B petitions; therefore, it is not recommended to travel while on Cap-Gap.
Criminal Record: If you have been involved in any criminal matter previously, other than minor traffic violations, you must consult a qualified immigration attorney before taking any actions which might impact your status such as travel, visa applications, status changes, etc. You may be denied re-entry or a visa renewal if you have an arrest or criminal charge on your record.
Other Travel Resources